Jordan Montgomery, the darkhorse Spring Training candidate turned 5th starter, has performed well through his first eight starts. His most recent outing was especially encouraging. Montgomery worked 6.2IP against the Kansas City Royals scattering just 2 hits (1 solo HR) and 0 walks against 6 strikeouts. That’s an impressive stat line for a 5th starter, even if it is against a below average offense. He’s had other strong performances. He limited the Chicago Cubs to 2ER across 6.2IP and the Pittsburgh Pirates to 2ER across 6IP.
His ERA on the year so far sits at a relatively moderate 4.30. That’s not bad for a 5th starter getting his first take of the majors. Some of the more important stats bode well for his future. His K/9 is a respectable 8.4. His 1.20 WHIP is decent. His 3.81 FIP (fielding independent pitching) is actually 2nd best on the team behind only Luis Severino. Montgomery’s biggest focus moving forward will be limiting walks (currently 3.5 BB/9) and working deeper into games. While he hasn’t yet worked into the 7th inning, his pitch count has only hit 100 once. He certainly has more in the tank if the Yankees are willing to let pitch deeper into games (and he remains effective).
There’s evidence to suggest he can continue to improve. Through 297.2 minor league innings, Montgomery holds an impressive 2.57 ERA, 1.16 WHIP, 8.9K/9, 2.7BB/9. Not to mention the Yankees need another lefty pitcher on their staff, especially with CC Sabathia a free agent after this season. There’s plenty to like so far about this kid.
The tall lefty is still just 24 years old with a hopefully long career ahead of him.
