Mason Montgomery has quickly become one of the most trusted arms in the Pittsburgh Pirates' bullpen, posting a 0.96 earned run average over his last twenty outings.
Across 18.2 innings he has yielded just six hits and six walks while fanning 38 batters, a performance that places him among the league’s elite relievers.
A Fresh Arsenal
His resurgence is tied to a willingness to experiment, adding a curveball, two‑seamer and changeup to a repertoire that already featured a fastball and slider.
The new pitches have not only expanded his options but also helped him manage the emotional ups and downs that come with high‑leverage situations.
Manager Don Kelly has repeatedly turned to Montgomery in save scenarios, a confidence that was first evident when the right‑hander recorded his initial save of the season on July 11 in a doubleheader against the Brewers.
Since that debut he has converted all four save opportunities, underscoring the manager’s reliance on a pitcher who thrives when the game’s tempo accelerates.
The Pirates’ bullpen, bolstered by four relievers acquired at the trade deadline, has transformed into a team strength, with Montgomery anchoring the closing role.
Beyond the statistics, Montgomery credits his success to a growing confidence in his ability to dictate the opposing offense, a mindset that blends technical adjustment with mental composure.