Mike Montgomery Wants to Start, Perhaps Force a Move
So I didn’t expect this at all… While I understand the feeling, Mike Montgomery was basically anointed the fifth starter going into the 2017 season. The Cubs then went on to sign Brett Anderson (yes that Brett Anderson) and the team gave Brett that last starters spot. Montgomery then quietly returned to the bullpen.
I understand his qualms. I do. He was brought here with starting being in his future. The Cubs continued to tell him and the fans that he would get an opportunity. Theo Epstein had mentioned several times that starting was something they see him doing.
But yet, time-and-time again the organization turned elsewhere for their last starter. Oh, and one of those starters was BRETT FREAKING ANDERSON!!!
So it is understandable that Mike would leak something like this out to the press.
#Cubs LHP Mike Montgomery would like chance to start or go to place where he can, sources close to the pitcher tell The Athletic. Has communicated desire to start to #Cubs, but not desire to go elsewhere if opportunity is not available, sources say. Role in ‘18 presently unclear.
— Ken Rosenthal (@Ken_Rosenthal) December 13, 2017
So what does this mean? Is Montgomery angling for a chance to start, trying to leverage himself a bit? Is he trying to leverage his past success to get moved out of town in the event that he doesn’t get the chance here in Chicago?
I have been very adamant that if you move Montgomery from the pen, you better get someone better to replace him. He might be a serviceable starter, but he’s been a great reliever.
Simply put – he’s replaceable as a starter, he isn’t as a reliever.
In any event, this will be an interesting story to follow as things develop.
He is not starter material and proved that more than once. He is so-so as a reliever but we can’t lose our entire bullpen, though that would be great for the most part. If he wants to go, then don’t let the door hit you in the butt on the way out. BTW, did we get rid of Grimm? I truly hope so!