On September 25, 2024, Marcus Stroman replaced the injured Nestor Cortes as the Yankees' starting pitcher against the Baltimore Orioles, in a crucial game as the team aimed to clinch the AL East title.

As the offseason progresses, two veteran starting pitchers—Marcus Stroman of the New York Yankees and Jordan Montgomery of the Arizona Diamondbacks—have emerged as potential trade candidates.

According to ESPN’s Buster Olney, “there is an assumption among other teams” that both players may be moved, though such trades might require their current teams to absorb portions of their salaries.

Financial considerations

Stroman, 33, is set to earn $18 million in 2025, with a player option for the same amount in 2026 if he pitches at least 140 innings in 2025—a threshold he surpassed last season with 154.2 innings. Montgomery, 32, exercised his $22.5 million player option for 2025 after a challenging 2024 season. Both contracts present financial obstacles for potential trade partners, especially considering their recent performances.

Performance and trade implications

In 2024, Stroman posted a 4.31 ERA and 1.47 WHIP over 154.2 innings, recording 113 strikeouts. Despite a solid regular season, he was omitted from the Yankees’ postseason roster as the team advanced to the World Series. Manager Aaron Boone acknowledged Stroman’s contributions, stating, “He was one of the reasons we were able to win the division and get through the playoffs.” Trading Stroman could provide the Yankees with financial flexibility to avoid a steep luxury tax penalty, though his value as rotation depth remains a consideration.

Montgomery’s situation in Arizona appears more precarious. In his first season with the Diamondbacks, the left-hander struggled, posting a 6.23 ERA and 1.65 WHIP in 25 appearances—the second-worst marks of his career. While he could rebound in 2025, Arizona may be reluctant to gamble on a turnaround given his $22.5 million salary.

Potential Trade Destinations

The Yankees are reportedly willing to absorb part of Stroman’s salary to facilitate a trade, potentially opening avenues to acquire infield depth. Speculation includes interest in players like Jorge Polanco and Brendan Rodgers, though high-profile acquisitions are considered unlikely.

For Montgomery, the Diamondbacks’ addition of Corbin Burnes has led to speculation about trading from their rotation surplus. While Montgomery appears to be the most likely candidate, his recent performance and salary may limit the return Arizona can expect.

Both Stroman and Montgomery offer potential upside, but their substantial contracts and recent struggles may necessitate their current teams covering portions of their salaries to facilitate trades. The offseason market will determine whether these pitchers find new homes or remain with their current teams into the upcoming season.