Mets Add Montas to Bolster Pitching Depth
The New York Mets have made a bold move to enhance their pitching lineup by signing right-handed pitcher Frankie Montas to a two-year contract valued at $34 million. As the organization looks to solidify its roster and make a competitive push this season, the acquisition of Montas signifies a commitment to reinforcing a rotation that has faced uncertainties.
Montas is no rookie to the major leagues. At 31, he brings a depth of experience after a season that saw him start 30 games, split between stints with the Cincinnati Reds and the Milwaukee Brewers. Despite posting a relatively modest 4.84 ERA last season, the Mets see untapped potential in Montas. His history hints at the possibility of delivering more impressive performances, an opinion echoed in the league. "The ingredients are here for better numbers," notes an insider assessment of Montas' potential trajectory.
A Dynamic Pitching Arsenal
Montas' pitching repertoire is extensive, featuring two mid-90s fastballs, complemented by a cutter, a slider, and a splitter. His time with the Brewers was marked by a strategic shift, focusing more on his sinker and cutter while reducing reliance on his slider and splitter. However, it's important to note that external pitch-quality models rate Montas' slider, splitter, and his less frequently used sweeper as above average, indicating that when deployed effectively, these pitches can be significant weapons in his arsenal.
This addition underscores the strategic planning of David Stearns, the Mets' top baseball operations executive, who has been active in refining the team's pitching dynamics. Last winter, the Mets injected talent into the rotation by signing pitchers Sean Manaea and Luis Severino on short-term deals. Montas now joins this cadre of pitchers expected to shoulder considerable responsibilities amidst the possible free-agency departure of Jose Quintana.
A Career with Peaks and Valleys
Montas’ journey has been a narrative of peaks and valleys, marked by resilience and potential. He has managed to secure 10-plus starts across six different seasons, a testament to his durability when healthy. Notably, he has been in the discussion for the prestigious Cy Young Award, finishing as high as sixth in a past season. These accolades, however, must be weighed against recent challenges, including his less than stellar tenure with the New York Yankees in 2022, where he made only eight starts before missing almost all of 2023 due to injury.
Despite this, the Mets’ executives remain optimistic about the significant contributions Montas can make to their squad. The signing reflects their broader ambition to vie for top honors in the league, a drive that has shaped their aggressive acquisition strategies in recent years.
Looking Forward
As Montas prepares to take the mound in a Mets uniform, expectations are cautiously optimistic. The organization believes that with an approach tailored to leverage his strengths, Montas can replicate or exceed his past successes. The 31-year-old pitcher enters the fold at a critical juncture, with anticipations running high amongst fans and analysts eager to see if he can translate his potential into tangible success on the pitcher's mound.
In the complex dance of major league baseball, where careers are often subject to the whims of fortune as much as skill, Frankie Montas’ new partnership with the Mets represents a chance for both player and team to redefine their narratives. By banking on Montas, the Mets are staking a claim on the resilient right-hander's ability to rise to the occasion, aiming to secure their position as formidable contenders in the pursuit of championship glory.