New York Yankees get to see an old friend very soon

The New York Yankees’ decision to trade Jordan Montgomery to the St. Louis Cardinals was a stunner. While Harrison Bader will make a difference in the future, he is presently on the Injured List. Meanwhile, the Yankees needed help in the rotation before acquiring Frankie Montas. Sending Montgomery away the next day was an odd decision.

The Yankees are not going to have a chance to miss Montgomery for long. He is slated to make his Cardinals debut over the weekend facing his former teammates.

Jordan Montgomery gets chance to face New York Yankees in Cardinals’ debut

The Cardinals needed pitching help as well. They had added Jose Quintana and reliever Chris Stratton after missing out on Montas but were still looking for another piece. Montgomery was that option despite the Yankees’ own pitching needs.

Montgomery does give the Cardinals an intriguing piece for their rotation. He has posted a 3.69 ERA and a 1.099 WHiP over his 114.2 innings, striking out 97 batters with 23 walks. As he is also under team control through next season, Montgomery gives the Cardinals an option going forward as well.

That latter part is important. Adam Wainwright is set to retire after this season. Miles Mikolas is having a career year at 33 years old, but it is fair to wonder if he can continue at that level. Steven Matz has disappointed when he has been on the mound, his injury woes sapping his effectiveness. While there are plenty of intriguing prospects in their system, the Cardinals do need proven options that can step in.

They will get a chance to see what they have against a formidable lineup. While the Yankees have faltered lately. their offense remains as potent as ever. He is literally being thrown into the fire against his former team. At the same time, there may not be a pitcher that knows their opponent better.

The New York Yankees sent Jordan Montgomery away on Tuesday. It will not be long until they see him once again as they head to St. Louis.