Mets Strengthen Pitching Rotation with Frankie Montas Signing
The New York Mets have taken a significant step forward in reinforcing their pitching rotation by signing right-hander Frankie Montas to a two-year deal valued at $34 million. This move signals the Mets' intention to compete fiercely in the league and enhance their chances of securing top honors.
Montas comes with an extensive resume and potential upside that intrigues the Mets' management. At 31 years old, the seasoned pitcher brings a wealth of experience, having made 10-plus starts in six seasons, and shown flashes of brilliance that earned him a place among the Cy Young Award voting, where he finished as high as sixth in a previous campaign.
Last season, Montas had stints with both the Cincinnati Reds and the Milwaukee Brewers. In his 30 starts, he posted a 4.84 ERA with a 2.24 strikeout-to-walk ratio. While these numbers may not appear overly impressive at first glance, the Mets' new top baseball operations executive, David Stearns, believes that the "ingredients are here for better numbers."
A Diverse Pitching Arsenal
Montas is armed with a diverse pitching repertoire that includes two mid-90s fastballs, a cutter, a splitter, and a slider. Notably, public-facing pitch-quality models have rated his slider, splitter, and sweeper as above average. Last season, after joining the Brewers, Montas focused more on utilizing his sinker and cutter, opting to use his slider and splitter less. This adaptability and potential for optimization make Montas a promising addition to the Mets.
The club's CEO appears to have a penchant for revitalizing talented pitchers, as witnessed last winter when they brought in Sean Manaea and Luis Severino on short-term deals. The departure of a key player, Jose Quintana, who is now a free agent, further necessitated this strategic acquisition to maintain a competitive edge in their bullpen.
Overcoming Recent Challenges
Montas' recent career trajectory has had its challenges. His time with the New York Yankees in 2022 was cut short, as he managed only eight starts due to injuries that caused him to miss nearly the entirety of the 2023 season. These circumstances, however, do not overshadow the potential impact he could have in a starting rotation when fully fit and firing.
The Mets' willingness to back Montas with a substantial contract despite this recent history reflects their belief in his ability to bounce back and contribute significantly to their ambitions. It's a strategic bet that could pay dividends as the team positions itself as a contender.
A Statement of Intent
This signing underscores the Mets' ambition to assemble a roster capable of excelling at the highest level of competition. As they eye the possibility of achieving top-tier success, Montas is expected to play a pivotal role. His diverse skill set and track record offer the team both depth and versatility on the mound.
While the details of how he will slot into the Mets' rotation remain to be seen, the focus will likely be on maximizing the strengths of his pitching arsenal and possibly refining his approach based on previous adaptations. With a strategic plan in place, the team feels optimistic about unlocking Montas' full potential.
In conclusion, as the new season looms, the Mets are diligently taking steps to ensure they remain competitive. The acquisition of Frankie Montas is one such measure, emblematic of a proactive and forward-thinking strategy that balances current needs with future aspirations. As baseball fans watch the season unfold, the Mets will be eager to see their investment in Montas translate to success on the field.