The Mets Bolster Rotation with Two-Year Signing of Frankie Montas
In a strategic move to fortify their rotation, the New York Mets have secured right-hander Frankie Montas on a two-year deal worth $34 million. The 31-year-old hurler, who split time last season between the Cincinnati Reds and Milwaukee Brewers, brings both experience and potential to a Mets team aiming for competitive excellence.
Montas, known for his powerful pitching arsenal, made 30 starts last season, showcasing a mix of two mid-90s fastballs, a cutter, a slider, and a splitter. Despite posting a 4.84 ERA and a 2.24 strikeout-to-walk ratio, Montas' repertoire remains potent. His slider, splitter, and sweeper continue to be rated as above average by pitch-quality models, underscoring his ability to overpower hitters when on form.
After his midseason transition to the Brewers, Montas adjusted his approach, relying more heavily on his sinker and cutter while reducing the usage of his slider and splitter. This adaptation is indicative of his willingness to evolve and adapt his pitching style in pursuit of success, a trait that potentially bodes well for his tenure with the Mets.
David Stearns, the top baseball operations executive for the Mets, expressed confidence in Montas' ability to contribute to the team's ambitious plans. Despite a brief stint with the New York Yankees in 2022 and missing almost all of the following season, the Mets recognize Montas’ knack for bouncing back. His record includes making 10-plus starts in six different seasons and a notable performance in the Cy Young Award voting, where he finished as high as sixth in a previous year.
The Mets' latest acquisition echoes their previous winter strategy when they bolstered their rotation by signing pitchers Sean Manaea and Luis Severino on short-term deals. With the potential departure of Jose Quintana looming on the horizon due to free agency, Montas' signing serves as a preemptive reinforcement of their pitching staff.
Despite his less impactful tenure with the Yankees, the Mets' willingness to invest in Montas highlights their assessment of his potential. A source close to the team remarked, "The ingredients are here for better numbers," reflecting a belief that Montas possesses the tools to improve his statistics and make a significant impact in the Mets' pitching lineup.
With this signing, the Mets demonstrate their ambition to remain competitive within the league, reflecting a strategic approach to team building. By integrating players like Montas, who combine experience with untapped potential, the Mets aim to create a dynamic roster capable of contending for top honors.
Montas’ journey to the Mets is a testament to his perseverance and adaptability, qualities that should serve him well in the high-pressure environment of New York. His ability to adjust his pitching strategy reflects a deeper understanding of the game, suggesting that he is ready to take advantage of the opportunities a fresh start can provide.
In securing Frankie Montas, the Mets are banking not just on his current statistics, but on his potential to elevate his game to an elite level. As the season unfolds, all eyes will be on Montas to see how he capitalizes on this opportunity, carrying the hopes and expectations of a franchise eager to return to prominence.