Mason Montgomery

Montgomery disappointed as a starter in the upper minors, but since moving to the pen, he’s looked like someone who could become one of the league’s top lefty relievers. First, though, he needs to crack a Rays pen that is largely filled with out-of-options pitchers. It’s a mission made more difficult by the fact that he has all of his options remaining.

Montgomery is the Rays’ 4th-ranked prospect but has struggled in 2024, pitching to a 6.26 ERA and 1.61 WHIP in 87 2/3 innings across 31 games (14 starts). However, that does come with a 105:36 K:BB ratio, and his stuff has played up since moving to the bullpen. In his last 10 relief appearances, he has not allowed a run while striking out 20 batters and walking five. He can run his fastball up to 97 mph with elite iVB, so he could be a factor in the Rays’ bullpen down the stretch. He will take Alex Jackson’s spot on the 40-man roster after the catcher was designated for assignment.