PHOENIX — The Arizona Diamondbacks have made several key decisions regarding their roster as left-handed pitcher Jordan Montgomery has opted into his $22.5 million deal with the team. In addition, the Diamondbacks confirmed they will retain both third baseman Eugenio Suárez and right-handed pitcher Merrill Kelly for the 2025 season, according to a source familiar with these developments.
Joc Pederson, on the other hand, has decided to decline his mutual option worth $14 million and will receive a $3 million buyout as he now enters free agency, as relayed by the same source who preferred to remain anonymous due to the lack of official announcements.
Montgomery, 31, initially joined the Diamondbacks last March on a one-year contract valued at $25 million. However, his performance did not meet expectations, ending the season with an 8-7 record and a 6.23 ERA across 117 innings pitched. This disappointing showing reportedly displeased D-backs owner Ken Kendrick. His option for $22.5 million was close to turning into $25 million had he reached 23 starts, but he fell short with just 21 starts. Ultimately, the total value of his contract now stands at $47.5 million.
Eugenio Suárez significantly contributed to the Diamondbacks’ success during the past season, achieving one of the best performances of his career with a batting average of .256, along with an impressive 30 home runs and 101 runs batted in (RBIs). He is set to earn $15 million in the upcoming season as part of a multi-year contract he originally signed with the Cincinnati Reds in 2018, which now enhances the total worth of the deal to $79 million spread over eight years.
Merrill Kelly, aged 36, faced challenges with a shoulder injury that limited his time on the mound last season. Nevertheless, when healthy, he performed admirably, achieving a record of 5-1 and a 4.03 ERA over his appearances. The right-hander’s contracted earnings will amount to $7 million for the next season, bringing the overall value of his contract to $24 million across three seasons.
Joc Pederson had a successful stint with the Diamondbacks, particularly excelling against right-handed pitchers, hitting 23 home runs and playing a central role in the team’s batting lineup. Combining his salary and the buyout, Pederson earned $12.5 million during his tenure in Arizona.