The Yankees and Cardinals made a deal late outfielder-pitcher swap
The Cardinals and Yankees have reached an agreement on the exchange of left-handed pitcher Jordan Montgomery to St. Louis in exchange for center fielder Harrison Bader, the teams announced.
Montgomery 29. A person who is 29 years old, has posted the 3.69 ERA (104 ERA+). Furthermore, a 4.22 strikeout-to-walk ratio over the 114 innings he played this season in pinstripes. Following his 2023 campaign he is all set to sign a free agency. Montgomery is most likely to do his work using a 3-pitch mix of a 90-mph fastball. Also, low 80s curveball and changeup. He is a striker and has produced a career-high ground ball rate of 46 percent this season. Hence, which makes Montgomery a great fit the middle of St. Louis’ top-notch defensive infield.
Harrison Bader the 28-year-old will also be eligible to become a free agent after the next season. He’s currently on the injured reserve with plantar fasciitis on his left foot. The team expects him to be back prior to the end of the regular season. However, not so soon. MLB.com’s Bryan Hoch tweeted that Harrison Bader will be removed from the team. Importantly, for at least a week and put in the form of a walking boot.
Prior to being placed to the bench, Harrison Bader had hit .256/.303/.370 (93 OPS+) with five home runs. Hence, as well as 15 base steals (on 17 attempts). He’s widely regarded as one of the top outfielders in the majors. Thus, with 47 Defensive Runs Saved in his career in accordance with the Baseball-Reference. Also, the Yankees are justified in the event that they were to employ Harrison Bader in their middle fielder position. In addition to this, move Aaron Judge back to a corner.
The Yankees bought Frankie Montas earlier this week. Hence, as well as Luis Severino working his way back from an injury. They now have six pitching options for their starting lineup. It is clear, then, that New York valued the opportunity to add another player for their infield.
The Cardinals required pitching assistance. Hence, even after acquiring Jose Quintana from the Pittsburgh Pirates. They may have felt Harrison Bader was not worth the risk due to his presence. Dylan Carlson, one of the players that the San Diego Padres were seeking for a possible Juan Soto trade.