New York Mets Add Depth to Pitching Rotation with Frankie Montas Signing
In a move showcasing both ambition and strategic planning, the New York Mets have secured the services of right-handed pitcher Frankie Montas, signing him to a two-year deal worth $34 million. This acquisition comes as part of the Mets' broader vision to build a competitive roster capable of vying for top honors in the league.
Montas, at 31 years old, brings a repertoire of experience and versatility to the Mets' pitching staff, having made 10-plus starts in six different seasons. Last season, he split his time between the Cincinnati Reds and the Milwaukee Brewers, making 30 starts and posting a 4.84 ERA. His performances might not initially appear outstanding, but a 2.24 strikeout-to-walk ratio suggests there are underlying elements of his pitching game that could be harnessed for greater success.
The Mets' interest in Montas is fueled by the potential for better numbers, as indicated by his time with the Milwaukee Brewers, where he adjusted his approach. By focusing more on his sinker and cutter and reducing reliance on his slider and splitter, Montas demonstrated an ability to adapt and evolve his pitching strategy based on team needs. Public-facing pitch-quality models have rated Montas' slider, splitter, and sweeper as above average, providing further evidence that his arsenal, which includes two mid-90s fastballs, holds the potential to make a significant impact.
David Stearns, the Mets' top baseball operations executive, is likely viewing Montas as a strong addition to the rotation, especially given the potential free agency departure of Jose Quintana, another key pitcher. This signing reflects a continued effort to fortify the Mets' pitching staff, following last winter's acquisitions of Sean Manaea and Luis Severino on short-term contracts.
Montas' career trajectory, highlighted by a past sixth-place finish in Cy Young Award voting, adds to the intrigue. Although he had a brief and less impactful tenure with the New York Yankees, making only eight starts during the 2022 season and missing almost all of 2023, the Mets are betting on his ability to rediscover the form that once made him a standout performer in the league.
Adaptability and potential are keywords in assessing Montas' role with the Mets. His blend of pitches and demonstrated willingness to adjust offer a promising outlook, underscored by the belief that "the ingredients are here for better numbers." Montas' skillset and experience position him to not only improve on past performances but to also emerge as a reliable presence in the Mets' rotation.
As the Mets gear up for the upcoming season, Montas stands as a testament to their strategic approach in assembling a squad aiming for competitiveness. The decision to invest in Montas, despite his recent absences from the mound, speaks volumes about the Mets' confidence in his ability to contribute meaningfully toward their pursuit of a championship.
With this signing, the Mets send a clear signal of their intentions: they are not just participants in the league but contenders aiming for greatness. As Montas dons the Mets uniform, the expectation is that he will seize this opportunity to establish himself as a linchpin in the pitching rotation, injecting both skill and experience into a team hungry for success.