The Reds should target this rival pitcher at the trade deadline to bolster the starting rotation

It's not often that you see division foes agree to terms on a trade, but perhaps the Cincinnati Reds should see if the St. Louis Cardinals want to play ball.

At last year's MLB trade deadline, the New York Yankees dealt starting pitcher Jordan Montgomery to the Cardinals in exchange for centerfielder Harrison Bader. The Reds, whose starting rotation has taken a hit recently, should inquire as to Montgomery's availability.

With injuries to their top two starters (Hunter Greene and Nick Lodolo), the Reds have put together a piecemeal rotation over the last few weeks. A starter of Montgomery's caliber would greatly improve Cincinnati's chances of winning the NL Central Division.

The Reds should target rival pitcher Jordan Montgomery at the trade deadline.

As surprisingly successful as the Cincinnati Reds have been during the 2023 season, the St. Louis Cardinals have been surprisingly awful. The Cardinals occupy the NL Central basement and should be sellers at the MLB trade deadline.

Jordan Montgomery has pitched well this season, owning an ERA just above 3.00 with over 100 innings pitched on the season. Montgomery has gone over six innings in four of his last five starts while allowing just two balls to leave the yard.

Montgomery made an early exit from his final start before the All-Star break after slipping on the mound. It was reported that Montgomery may have injured his hamstring. If he's healthy, however, Montgomery could be one of the best starters available.

Montgomery is under contract through the remainder of this season. Prior to the 2023 season, MLB Trade Rumors ranked Montgomery among the Top 10 free agents to-be heading into the winter.

What might the asking price be for a player of Montgomery's caliber? It depends on how the rest of the trade market lines up. Other "rental" pitchers to consider are Lucas Giolito, Marcus Stroman, and Blake Snell.

Adding a starter like Jordan Montgomery would allow the Cincinnati Reds to employ a rotation of Hunter Greene, Nick Lodolo, Andrew Abbott, and Graham Ashcraft in addition to the St, Louis Cardinals starter.