Arizona Diamondbacks Move Veteran Pitcher Jordan Montgomery to Bullpen, Promote Ryne Nelson to Starting Rotation
The Arizona Diamondbacks are making a significant roster change, moving veteran pitcher Jordan Montgomery to the bullpen and promoting Ryne Nelson to a permanent spot in the starting rotation. This decision comes after a string of inconsistent performances from Montgomery and a strong stretch of success from Nelson. Manager Torey Lovullo described the decision as "tough" but ultimately in the best interest of the team’s success for the remainder of the season.
Key Takeaways:
- Montgomery’s Struggles: Despite a strong 2023 season and a World Series championship under his belt, Montgomery has struggled in Arizona, posting a 7.02 ERA since the start of May.
- Nelson’s Rise: Nelson has become a vital part of the Diamondbacks’ pitching staff, showcasing strong, consistent performance and a 2.73 ERA in his last nine starts.
- Shifting Dynamics: The move reflects the Diamondbacks’ commitment to utilizing their most effective pitchers. While Montgomery’s experience and championship pedigree are valuable, his performance has not matched expectations in Arizona. Nelson’s recent success has solidified his position as a key piece of the rotation.
- A Tough Decision: Lovullo acknowledged the difficulty in making this decision, emphasizing the importance of putting the team’s success first. While Montgomery initially expressed disappointment, he ultimately agreed to accept the change.
Why did the Diamondbacks sign Jordan Montgomery?
The Diamondbacks signed Montgomery shortly after Opening Day to fortify their rotation following an injury to Eduardo Rodriguez. Montgomery’s 2023 performance, which included a 3.20 ERA over 32 starts and a stellar World Series run, made him a highly sought-after pitcher. The team saw him as a valuable addition to their pitching staff, hoping to leverage his experience and proven track record.
However, despite the initial excitement, Montgomery struggled to adapt to his new environment. He took over two weeks to ramp up his performance after missing spring training, and his early success was followed by a period of inconsistency. While he received an average of 6.47 runs of support, his inability to consistently limit runs proved to be a challenge.
Ryne Nelson Earns His Spot in the Rotation
The shift in pitching roles sees a changing of the guard, highlighting the D-backs’ commitment to developing homegrown talent. Nelson, a young pitcher with growing confidence and a strong skillset, has capitalized on his opportunity.
Since the start of July, Nelson has been one of the most effective pitchers in baseball, with his performance earning him a permanent spot in the rotation. This consistent stretch of success, marked by strong velocity, command, and a reliable arsenal of pitches, is proof of his talent and dedication to continuous development. He has managed to stay consistently confident and focused between starts, a key aspect of his improvement, according to his own self-assessment.
The Impact on the Future
This change in pitching roles sets the stage for a new era in the Diamondbacks’ pitching staff. By prioritizing Nelson’s success and utilizing Montgomery’s experience in a different role, the team is making strides in building a sustainable strategy for the future. The long-term goal is to have a blend of veterans and young talent, ensuring a steady flow of talent and a strong foundation for continued success.
This move represents a strategic shift for the Diamondbacks, one that reflects their ongoing commitment to maximizing their talent pool and creating a winning environment. While the decision was undeniably difficult, it is a testament to the organization’s strategic vision and their resolve to build a strong, dynamic pitching staff capable of reaching the next level, with young talent like Nelson at the forefront of the team’s future success.
