In a notable move that underscores their ambition to remain strong contenders, the New York Mets have secured the services of right-handed pitcher Frankie Montas. The 31-year-old has inked a two-year contract valued at $34 million, marking a significant addition to the Mets' roster in their quest for preeminence in Major League Baseball.
Montas brings to the Mets a unique set of skills, evidenced by his spirited performances during the past season split between the Cincinnati Reds and the Milwaukee Brewers. Over 30 starts, Montas recorded a 4.84 ERA and maintained a 2.24 strikeout-to-walk ratio. While these statistics might seem modest at first glance, they hint at untapped potential that the Mets aim to harness under the strategic guidance of their top baseball operations executive, David Stearns.
A Varied Pitching Arsenal
Montas is known for his diverse pitching repertoire, which includes two mid-90s fastballs, a cutter, a slider, and a splitter. His shift in focus after joining the Brewers — favoring his sinker and cutter over his slider and splitter — proved to be a strategic choice in adjusting his gameplay. Analysts rate his slider, splitter, and sweeper as being above average, highlighting their potential effectiveness when executed with precision.
This versatility gives Montas a tactical edge, allowing him to adapt and respond to the challenges posed by different batting lineups. It's this adaptability that the Mets find appealing, especially considering their current need for dynamic pitchers as they face the likely departure of Jose Quintana to free agency.
Past Challenges and Future Promise
Montas' journey has not been without its challenges. His tenure with the New York Yankees in 2022 was fleeting, marred by injuries that limited him to only eight starts. Consequently, he missed almost the entirety of the 2023 season. Nevertheless, the Mets are confident in Montas' ability to overcome these setbacks, banking on his proven track record where he has previously made 10-plus starts in six different seasons and even emerged in the Cy Young Award voting, finishing as high as sixth in prior considerations.
"The ingredients are here for better numbers," an undisclosed source close to the team remarked, reflecting optimism for Montas' potential resurgence and contributions as a critical component of the Mets' pitching staff.
The Strategic Vision
This signing is consistent with the Mets’ recent strategy of reinforcing their pitching depth. Last winter, the team welcomed pitchers Sean Manaea and Luis Severino via short-term contracts, indicating their focus on building a strong, agile bullpen capable of rising to diverse challenges. Securing Montas further aligns with this vision, providing the Mets not only with depth but also with a veteran presence that could catalyze a stronger overall pitching performance this coming season.
The decision to bring Montas on board resonates with the team’s overarching goal of reasserting themselves among baseball's elite. His contract reflects a deliberate investment in the future, showcasing confidence in his rebuilding capacity and an anticipation of significant contributions on the mound.
Montas himself appears invigorated by this new chapter with the Mets. His mix of power and finesse, coupled with a renewed focus, positions him as a valuable asset in the team's ambitious bid for championship contention. The coming seasons will reveal whether Montas can translate his potential into tangible success and help the Mets compete for top honors in the league.
In the ever-evolving landscape of Major League Baseball, the Mets' acquisition of Frankie Montas is a bold step aimed at strengthening their roster and enhancing their competitiveness. As spring training approaches, all eyes will be on Montas to see how he integrates into the team's dynamics and whether he can indeed fulfill the promise that the Mets have invested in.