Mets Take a Shot on Frankie Montas
In a strategic move to bolster their pitching rotation, the New York Mets have reached an agreement with right-handed pitcher Frankie Montas, signing him to a two-year deal worth $34 million. The 31-year-old starter, known for his impressive pitch repertoire, joins the Mets after splitting the previous season between the Cincinnati Reds and the Milwaukee Brewers.
Last season, Montas contributed significantly, making 30 starts and demonstrating resilience with a 4.84 ERA and a 2.24 strikeout-to-walk ratio. Though his ERA might not seem stellar, observers note Montas' potential for growth and improvement. "The ingredients are here for better numbers," remarked an insider, pointing to Montas' comprehensive array of pitches. His arsenal consists of two mid-90s fastballs, a cutter, a splitter, and a slider, with public-facing pitch-quality models rating his slider, splitter, and sweeper as above average.
Adapting and Evolving
Upon joining the Brewers, Montas notably adjusted his pitching style, focusing more on his sinker and cutter while using his slider and splitter less. This adaptability indicates his willingness to evolve and refine his approach, traits that David Stearns, the Mets' top baseball operations executive, likely finds appealing.
The Mets, who have been proactive in augmenting their pitching staff, had already added Sean Manaea and Luis Severino on short-term contracts in the previous winter. With the potential departure of Jose Quintana looming due to free agency, Montas' addition becomes even more vital for the Mets' plans.
Past Performance and Potential
Throughout his career, Montas has demonstrated the ability to perform at a high level, having made 10-plus starts in six different seasons. His prowess on the mound was recognized when he received Cy Young Award votes, finishing as high as sixth in one season. However, his stint with the New York Yankees in 2022 was cut short, as he only managed to make eight starts before missing nearly the entirety of the 2023 season.
Despite his recent challenges, the Mets saw potential in Montas that convinced them to extend a two-year contract. They believe he has the capability to make significant contributions to their roster, both as a reliable starter and as a catalyst for their aspirations in the league. The signing reflects the Mets' ambition and readiness to compete for top honors, signaling that they are designing a team equipped for success.
Strategic Vision
This approach by the Mets underscores their strategic vision for the future. With David Stearns leading baseball operations, the team is clearly aligning itself to leverage experienced players who can make immediate impacts. While short-term contracts have their risks, Montas’ versatility and potential for calculating his options on the mound are seen as strong components that could help him elevate the team's performance.
Frankie Montas’ recent signing illustrates a broader trend in baseball where teams look to craft well-rounded rosters that can adapt to evolving strategies. His ability to draw on a variety of pitches and his openness to change promise to be valuable assets for the Mets in the seasons to come. As the team moves forward, Montas will be a player to watch, with fans and analysts eager to see how he will contribute to the Mets' campaign.
The move is a testament to the Mets’ proactive pursuit of excellence and sets the stage for another intriguing chapter in Montas' career. Whether he will indeed fulfill the potential the Mets see in him remains to be played out on the fields next season, but the promise and ambition are clearly evident in this latest signing.