Mets Secure Frankie Montas to Bolster Pitching Arsenal
In a move that underscores their ambition to remain competitive, the New York Mets have added an intriguing piece to their pitching puzzle by signing right-hander Frankie Montas to a two-year deal worth $34 million. At 31, Montas brings both potential and questions to a Mets team keen on strengthening its roster.
A Journey Across Teams
Montas’ career has been a rollercoaster of performances across several teams. Last season, he split his time between the Cincinnati Reds and the Milwaukee Brewers. During those stints, he made 30 starts and recorded a 4.84 ERA, complemented by a 2.24 strikeout-to-walk ratio. Although these stats might not jump off the page, they do hint at untapped potential.
His tenure with the Brewers saw a tactical shift in his pitching approach. Montas focused more on his sinker and cutter, which seemed to align with the highly-rated projections for his slider, splitter, and sweeper. Public-facing pitch-quality models suggest that each of these pitches is above average, creating optimism about his ability to adjust and excel in different pitching scenarios.
Adaptability and Arsenal
Frankie Montas is not just a one-trick pony. His repertoire features two mid-90s fastballs, a cutter, a splitter, and a slider. This varied arsenal should serve him well on the mound at Citi Field. The Mets, led by top baseball operations executive David Stearns, clearly see Montas’ adaptability and skill mix as crucial pieces in refreshing their lineup.
Montas’ knack for resilience is notable. Despite challenges, including a less impactful stint with the New York Yankees in 2022 where he made only eight starts and missed nearly all of 2023, Montas has proven his durability by making 10-plus starts in six different seasons. He has even been among the Cy Young Award contenders, finishing as high as sixth in one of those seasons, reflecting the high ceiling of his capabilities.
Aiming High with Bold Moves
The decision to sign Montas comes during an off-season where the Mets find themselves grappling with potential roster changes, particularly the possible departure of free agent pitcher Jose Quintana. The team has already made similar strategic maneuvers, adding pitchers Sean Manaea and Luis Severino on short-term contracts last winter. These moves indicate the Mets' clear intent: to assemble a pitching staff capable of meeting the rigors of postseason contention.
Montas’ signing encapsulates the team’s intent to compete with the elite. It’s a statement that the Mets are not merely content with seasonal adjustments but are instead crafting a strategy aimed at securing top honors. While Montas’ recent numbers may not yet reflect excellence, there remains widespread belief within the organization that "the ingredients are here for better numbers."
In Montas, the Mets envision a player who can not only fill a gap but also elevate their competitive edge. Whether his crucial transition results in significant contributions only time will tell. However, the confidence the Mets have shown by signing him is evident—it reflects their readiness to place bets on untapped potential and adaptability.
Looking Ahead
As the new season approaches, the spotlight will inevitably fall on Montas and the Mets’ newly remodeled pitching rotation. Will Montas reclaim the form that once made him a Cy Young candidate? Can the Mets leverage his versatile arsenal to surprise their competition? These questions set the stage for an exciting journey as the Mets pursue a path filled with promise and expectations.
What remains certain is that the Mets’ acquisition of Frankie Montas is not just a mere transaction. It is a significant step in their larger ambition to redefine their future, driven by calculated risks and strategic foresight. For Montas and the Mets, the road ahead brims with opportunity—it's a journey both are eager to embrace.