The New York Mets have bolstered their pitching rotation with the strategic acquisition of right-hander Frankie Montas, securing him on a two-year deal valued at $34 million. This move underscores the Mets' ambition to reinforce their roster and challenge for top honors in the league.
At 31, Montas brings a wealth of experience, having made over 10 starts in six distinct seasons and earning recognition in the Cy Young Award voting, with a peak finish as high as sixth. Despite his age, the potential for Montas to make impactful contributions is apparent, particularly after his recent tenure with the Milwaukee Brewers and Cincinnati Reds.
Last season, Montas showcased his endurance, with 30 starts and a 4.84 ERA, complemented by a 2.24 strikeout-to-walk ratio. However, his statistics do not fully encapsulate the nuances of his performance. Following a mid-season trade to the Brewers, Montas adjusted his approach on the mound, pivoting towards a utilization of his sinker and cutter. This tactical shift appeared to bolster his arsenal’s effectiveness, despite a reduction in slider and splitter usage—a decision that public-facing pitch-quality models might argue was counterintuitive given the above-average ratings of those pitches.
Indeed, Montas possesses a formidable array of pitches, including two mid-90s fastballs, enhancing his competitiveness in key situations. His artistic blending of a cutter, splitter, and slider further expands his repertoire, potentially setting the stage for better individual statistics in the upcoming season. As one unnamed observer noted, "The ingredients are here for better numbers," hinting at an optimistic outlook for Montas’ future performance.
Montas' limited tenure with the New York Yankees in 2022, with only eight starts and an almost entirely missed 2023 season, could have clouded his prospects. Nonetheless, the Mets have expressed faith in his potential, reflecting a belief that Montas has significant contributions left to offer.
The signing also occurs amid an air of uncertainty within the Mets' pitching staff, as they face the potential loss of Jose Quintana to free agency. This context highlights the strategic importance of securing Montas, especially as the team previously reinforced their lineup by signing pitchers Sean Manaea and Luis Severino on short-term contracts during the last offseason.
At the helm of these decisions is David Stearns, the Mets' top baseball operations executive, whose vision for the team is evidently geared towards assembling a resilient pitching core. While Montas' recent past may suggest a gamble, Stearns and his team appear to be banking on the pitcher’s upside and the adjustments he'll bring into the new season.
Frankie Montas' signing is more than just a roster addition; it's a statement from the Mets about their competitive intentions. As they aim to strengthen their standing in the league, bolstering their pitching rotation with a player of Montas’ caliber could make a decisive difference. With the backing of a committed front office and the promise of improved personal performance, Montas' journey with the Mets promises to be one that both fans and critics will watch closely.