Mike Montgomery had a decision to make. He had signed a minor league contract with the New York Yankees, a deal that included an opt-out clause that he could exercise if he was not added to the major league roster by June 1. It was clear that he would not be brought up to the majors in light of his struggles at Triple-A, but it was fair to wonder where else he could end up. Then there were rumors that Montgomery would have an opportunity in the Korean Baseball Organization, and potentially resurrect his career.
Montgomery is going to do just that. He will be signing with the Samsung Lions for the remainder of the 2021 season, hoping that he can rebuild his value.
Pitcher Mike Montgomery, who recently opted out of his contract with the New York Yankees, is in agreement on a deal with the Samsung Lions of the KBO. Montgomery is represented by Scott Lonergan of the Ballengee Group.
— Robert Murray (@ByRobertMurray) June 1, 2021
Mike Montgomery leaves New York Yankees organization for chance to rebuild stock
Montgomery has been a generally solid pitcher over his major league career. He had posted a 3.84 ERA and a 1.346 WHiP over his 541 innings, striking out 415 batters with 204 walks. Montgomery has bounced between the rotation and bullpen over the years, typically serving as a long reliever during his time in the majors.
As solid as his overall numbers have been, he has struggled in recent years. He has limped to a 4.95 ERA and a 1.599 WHiP over his 96.1 innings since the start of the 2019 season, striking out 73 batters with 35 walks while allowing 19 homers. That production was not what anyone had hoped for.
He continued to struggle in Triple-A. Montgomery has allowed 15 runs, 14 earned, on 19 hits and nine walks over his 19.2 innings, striking out 16 batters. He had served as a starter in that time, but seemed unable to even be a depth piece for the Yankees.
Now, he will head to the KBO in hopes of finding that magic. While other players may not have found sustained success after their time in Korea, they have been able to return to the majors, becoming solid pitchers. They may not be aces or stars, but it is possible that they can be respectable arms.
Mike Montgomery opted out of his minor league deal with the New York Yankees to head to Korea. Maybe he will be able to resurrect his career overseas.