Jordan Montgomery didn’t want to end up with the Red Sox

Jon Heyman

MLB

By Jon Heyman

Jordan Montgomery and the Red Sox had their famous Zoom call about six weeks ago, and while the Red Sox aren’t known to have made a concrete offer, it turns out Montgomery preferred not to go there, anyway.

There had been speculation that he might like Boston since his wife was training as a doctor at Beth Israel in affiliation with Harvard. But his wife is transferring to Vanderbilt, and word is, Montgomery didn’t love the Red Sox because he wants to win.

The Mets haven’t broached the subject of an extension yet for Francisco Alvarez, but he’s thought willing to listen.

Gerrit Cole bought nice commemorative watches for Yankees who most helped him win the Cy Young award, and had them inscribed. When I asked Cole about his generosity, he declined comment. Then when Jose Trevino walked by, Cole lightly castigated him for being the prime suspect as my watch source.

Incidentally, Cole says he feels good, and hopes June 1 is a good target for his return.

The Rays never announced details of manager Kevin Cash’s extension, but sources say it was for about $24M over five years. That’s quite a bump from his first deal — $5M for five years.

The Padres are considering Tommy Pham, who has a .292/.340/.521 slash line against D-Backs excellent front four of Zac Gallen, Merrill Kelly, Montgomery and Eduardo Rodriguez (via @TooMuchMortons_).

When Montgomery agreed, I texted Pham that he’s the best player available. To which he responded, “[Brandon] Belt is retiring?” Pham is nothing if not fair.

Give the D-Backs credit for jumping on Monty at $25M per, a lot of money for a mid-revenue team. E-Rod is expected out a month, which triggered the conversation with Montgomery.

The Phillies haven’t extended superstar Bryce Harper yet. But don’t put it past terrific Phillies owner John Middleton.