Mets Bolster Rotation with Frankie Montas Signing
In a strategic move to strengthen their pitching rotation, the New York Mets have inked a two-year, $34 million deal with right-hander Frankie Montas. At 31, Montas brings experience and potential as the Mets aim to fortify their roster for a highly competitive season.
Montas, who split his recent season between the Cincinnati Reds and Milwaukee Brewers, made his mark with 30 starts, although his overall performance was a mixed bag featuring a 4.84 ERA and a 2.24 strikeout-to-walk ratio. Notably, after his midseason transition to the Brewers, Montas adapted his pitching approach, placing greater emphasis on his sinker and cutter while scaling back on his slider and splitter. Despite these changes, pitch-quality models continue to rate Montas' slider, splitter, and sweeper as above average.
The Mets are banking on this outstanding potential, with David Stearns, the team's top baseball operations executive, clearly seeing the value Montas can bring to the team's ambitions. "The ingredients are here for better numbers," an optimistic sentiment echoed within the organization as they set sights on league dominance.
Experienced and Versatile Arm
Montas' pitching arsenal is robust, featuring two mid-90s fastballs, complemented by a cutter, splitter, and slider. This diverse range of pitches offers the Mets a versatile arm capable of adapting to various game scenarios. Montas' ability to make over 10 starts in six different seasons further underscores his resilience and durability on the mound.
Although Montas' stint with the New York Yankees in 2022 was brief and less impactful due to injuries, resulting in only eight starts and most of 2023 lost, the Mets are unfazed as they bring him back to New York. The potential departure of Jose Quintana as a free agent adds more significance to this acquisition. The organization is keen on drawing from Montas' Cy Young Award-caliber capabilities, having finished as high as sixth in voting in previous seasons.
The Mets' pursuit of Montas also reflects their aggressive off-season strategies. The previous winter saw them adding seasoned pitchers Sean Manaea and Luis Severino on short-term deals, highlighting a consistent focus on reinforcing their bullpen with experienced talent.
The Road Ahead
As the Mets prepare for the upcoming season, Montas' signing symbolizes more than just a roster addition. It reveals the organization's determination to rise in the rankings and seriously contend for top honors in Major League Baseball. The Mets' investment in Montas is seen as a testament to their ambition, betting on his potential to deliver significant results.
With their latest acquisition, the Mets hope that Montas will be a critical piece in their pursuit of championship success. The franchise is gearing up for a season where every game counts, and with Montas in their rotation, the Mets are poised to make a considerable impact.