Jordan Montgomery is regaining his confidence after a shaky start to the spring, showcasing marked improvement during a recent simulated game. His fastball velocity hovered between 89-91 mph, and he recorded two strikeouts while limiting hard contact against seasoned hitters. This performance is a significant step up from his last outing, where he allowed five runs in just one-third of an inning. Montgomery's pitching coach noted his evolving rhythm and focus, which may enhance his effectiveness as he competes for a rotation spot with the Arizona Diamondbacks.

With a $22.5 million player option exercised, Montgomery's performance is critical for the Diamondbacks, especially after a disappointing season that saw him finish with a 6.23 ERA. He is vying for a place in the rotation alongside Brandon Pfaadt and Ryne Nelson, both of whom have shown more consistent results recently. Montgomery's ability to incorporate feedback from teammates and adjust his approach will be crucial as the season approaches.

The National League West remains a battleground as teams vie for roster spots ahead of the season. The Arizona Diamondbacks are focusing on center field, with Jake McCarthy edging out Alek Thomas based on their early performances. While McCarthy's speed has proven valuable, Thomas has yet to deliver consistent power. The fifth starter role sees Brandon Pfaadt and Ryne Nelson in contention, while Justin Martinez and A.J. Puk compete to become the closer after Paul Sewald's departure.

Meanwhile, the Colorado Rockies are evaluating their right field options, with Hunter Goodman, Jordan Beck, and Zac Veen in the mix. Goodman’s dual role at catcher complicates things, and veterans may fill the gap if the youngsters don’t impress. Chase Dollander, the promising rookie, is expected to start in the minors due to spring struggles, while Seth Halvorsen appears to be the most viable closing option despite a historically tough environment for Rockies relievers. The Los Angeles Dodgers focus on second base and center field, with Tommy Edman likely starting regularly as the team assesses Hyeseong Kim's power revamp. Dustin May has secured the fifth starter role, but injury concerns loom for Tony Gonsolin.

The Arizona Diamondbacks have made a significant move by signing ace pitcher Corbin Burnes to a six-year, $210 million contract, which includes an opt-out clause after the 2026 season. This decision comes after the San Francisco Giants and Toronto Blue Jays reportedly hesitated to meet Burnes' contractual demands. At 30 years old, Burnes has established himself as one of baseball's most reliable pitchers, boasting a 2.88 ERA and a 29% strikeout rate over 816 2/3 innings since the 2020 season.

Burnes' addition is aimed at bolstering a Diamondbacks pitching staff that struggled last season, allowing the fifth-most runs per game. With only 72 combined starts from their veteran pitchers, the team is reportedly looking to trade Jordan Montgomery, who had a disappointing debut season with a 6.23 ERA. Burnes is expected to provide a stabilizing presence in the rotation, allowing younger pitchers like Brandon Pfaadt and Ryne Nelson to develop alongside him.

While Burnes transitions to Chase Field, which is known for being more hitter-friendly than his previous home in Baltimore, his track record of limiting hard contact offers some reassurance. However, concerns linger regarding his declining strikeout rate, which has decreased over the past four seasons. Despite these issues, Burnes remains a highly sought-after fantasy pitcher, currently projected as a top-seven starting pitcher in upcoming drafts.

Corbin Burnes, a four-time All-Star and one of the premier starting pitchers in Major League Baseball, has signed a lucrative six-year, $210 million contract with the Arizona Diamondbacks. This move marks Burnes' second consecutive offseason relocation, as he previously played for the Baltimore Orioles after being traded from the Milwaukee Brewers. The contract includes an opt-out clause after two years, allowing Burnes flexibility in his career decisions.

During his time with the Orioles, Burnes proved to be an invaluable asset, ranking seventh in the American League with a 3.7 FanGraphs wins above replacement. He posted an impressive 2.92 ERA and recorded 181 strikeouts over 194.1 innings across 32 starts, solidifying his reputation as a frontline starter. His performance earned him a spot in the All-Star game for the fourth consecutive year, where he pitched opposite Pittsburgh Pirates star Paul Skenes.

Despite his accolades, there are concerns regarding Burnes' declining strikeout rates over the past four seasons, dropping from a career-high of 13.3 strikeouts per nine innings in 2020 to 8.4 last season. However, his overall metrics remain strong, as he ranked in the 80th percentile or better in several key pitching categories. At just 30 years old, Burnes is expected to continue performing at a high level, making him a significant addition to the Diamondbacks' rotation, which also includes Zac Gallen and Merrill Kelly, among others.

The Arizona Diamondbacks are well-equipped with starting pitchers as they approach the 2025 season, which may lead to innovative strategies for utilizing their depth. With five established starters and promising prospects, the team faces a decision regarding Drey Jameson, who is recovering from Tommy John surgery.

Jameson, expected to return by Spring Training, may transition to a relief role instead of starting, given his extended absence from competitive play. The Diamondbacks have already experimented with him in the bullpen, and his previous performances suggest he could adapt well to this new position.