We Need To Talk About Monty: Texas Rangers Unlikely To Spend For Jordan Montgomery Reunion

Texas Rangers ownership is unlikely to spend what it will take to sign free agent Jordan Montgomery because it would likely trigger multiple years of luxury tax penalties.

SURPRISE, Ariz. — The Jordan Montgomery questions are still lingering.

The former Texas Rangers left-hander, who helped the club win their first World Series title less than four months ago, is still a free agent.

Although the Rangers would love a reunion, and reports have indicated Montgomery was hopeful to stay with Texas, it appears his asking price is too steep for the club.

Rangers general manager Chris Young was asked about Montgomery on Wednesday.

"I don't think there are many additions coming at this point," Young said. "We'll keep an open mind. At this point, the group we have in the clubhouse is primarily the group, and if there is an opportunity to add, we would certainly be open to that."

Young pointed out that the Rangers are headed for a franchise-record payroll in 2024. The estimated payroll of about $220 million is expected to rank among the seven largest in MLB. The club is likely to be on the hook for a nearly $2 million luxury tax for a second consecutive season with its current roster.

A deal to sign Montgomery would not only exacerbate this year's luxury tax penalties but future seasons as well. Montgomery is looking for a deal in the $20-25 million a year range, according to reports.

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"Ownership, I think, has shown a great willingness to spend, but there are limits as to where that goes," Young said. "I know Jordan was such an important part of last year's team. We'll keep an open mind."

The Rangers' television rights situation with Diamond Sports Group, while resolved for the 2024 season, remains a lingering cashflow question in the future, which has further blunted ownerships' desire to spend.

"The TV uncertainty is real. We don't know what it looks like beyond this year," Young said. "I know there was a reduction in the fees for this year. And that moving beyond, there's no certainty as to what that looks like. There is a financial responsibility that we have to operate with until we have that certainty."

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