Mets Reinforce Rotation with the Signing of Frankie Montas
The New York Mets have taken a bold step to bolster their pitching rotation by securing right-handed pitcher Frankie Montas on a two-year, $34 million contract. With a diverse arsenal of pitches and the potential to be a cornerstone of the pitching staff, Montas brings a blend of experience and talent that the Mets aim to harness in their pursuit of competitive success.
A New Chapter for Montas
The 31-year-old Montas arrives in New York following a season split between the Cincinnati Reds and the Milwaukee Brewers. Although his overall performance last year was marked by a 4.84 ERA across 30 starts, Montas demonstrated resilience and adaptability. After joining the Brewers, he adjusted his pitching approach, favoring his sinker and cutter, while dialing back on his use of the slider and splitter. Such strategic shifts indicate a willingness to evolve and refine his game.
Public-facing pitch-quality models commend Montas’ slider, splitter, and sweeper as above-average pitches. His repertoire, which includes two mid-90s fastballs, a cutter, a splitter, and a slider, provides the Mets with a versatile and potentially dominant force on the mound. "The ingredients are here for better numbers," one observation notes, underscoring the potential for Montas to improve and excel with the Mets.
Past Challenges and Future Potential
Montas’ journey to the Mets comes after a challenging stint with the New York Yankees in 2022, where he made only eight starts and subsequently missed almost the entire 2023 season. Despite this setback, his past performances have not gone unnoticed. Montas has made 10-plus starts in six different seasons and was once a Cy Young Award contender, finishing as high as sixth in the voting. His signing signifies the Mets’ confidence in his ability to rebound and deliver on the big stage.
Under the stewardship of David Stearns, the Mets’ top baseball operations executive, this acquisition fits into a broader strategy aimed at strengthening the team's pitching corps. Last winter, the Mets added pitchers Sean Manaea and Luis Severino on short-term deals, showcasing their commitment to building a robust rotation as they navigate the complexities of free agency and potential player departures, including that of Jose Quintana.
A Symbol of Ambition
The decision to bring Montas aboard reflects the Mets' ambition and determination to vie for top honors in the league. While his tenure with the Yankees might have been less impactful, the team’s management believes that Montas has the potential to make significant contributions moving forward. The blend of experience, a proven track record, and the tools at his disposal paint a promising picture for his future with the Mets.
For Mets fans, Montas’ signing represents hope and excitement. The club's faith in his ability to recapture his best form could turn out to be a pivotal aspect of their campaign. As the team looks to rise in the standings, Montas will be a player to watch, both for his ability to stymie opposing batters and his proficiency in coming through during critical matchups.
In a city famed for its sports narratives, Frankie Montas' arrival at Citi Field is set to be another compelling chapter. While the numbers from last season suggest room for improvement, the optimism surrounding Montas’ capabilities and the potential synergy with the Mets rotation could herald a defining era for both the pitcher and the franchise.