In a move signaling their intent to strengthen their pitching roster, the New York Mets have inked a deal with right-hander Frankie Montas, agreeing to a two-year contract worth $34 million. This acquisition is poised to add depth and versatility to a Mets pitching staff that has been undergoing a methodical reconstruction.
Frankie Montas, now 31 years of age, brings a wealth of experience and a diverse pitching arsenal to the Mets. Last season, Montas made appearances for both the Cincinnati Reds and the Milwaukee Brewers. Across 30 starts, he compiled a 4.84 ERA accompanied by a 2.24 strikeout-to-walk ratio. Despite these numbers, the Mets see untapped potential in Montas. As one team official noted, "The ingredients are here for better numbers."
A Veteran Presence
Montas has a storied career, having made 10-plus starts in six different seasons and even attracting attention in Cy Young Award voting, where he achieved a highest finish of sixth place in a prior season. However, his most recent MLB chapter was marked by challenges. Montas managed only eight starts with the New York Yankees in 2022 and was largely absent from the 2023 season due to injuries.
Despite this setback, the Mets are optimistic about Montas’ contributions over the next two years. His performance with the Brewers showcased a strategic shift in his pitching approach, with Montas placing greater emphasis on his sinker and cutter, while dialing back on the use of his slider and splitter. Public-facing pitch-quality models applaud Montas' slider, splitter, and sweeper, considering them above average, which aligns well with the Mets' philosophy of maximizing a pitcher's best tools.
Strategic Signings
The new signing fits a broader strategy employed by Mets’ top baseball operations executive, David Stearns. Previously, in a flurry of off-season activity, Stearns managed to add the likes of Sean Manaea and Luis Severino on shorter-term contracts. These moves reflect the organization’s strategy of blending seasoned veterans with potential breakout stars, a mix intended to mitigate risks while amplifying upside potential.
Yet another practical consideration in Montas' signing is the looming potential departure of Jose Quintana, a current free agent. This foresight emphasizes the Mets' determination to be proactive in maintaining a competitive roster.
Potential Unleashed
Frankie Montas arrives equipped with a formidable arsenal that includes two fastballs clocking in the mid-90s, a cutter, a splitter, and a slider — a suite of pitches that promises to keep batters on their toes. The Mets' coaching staff is banking on Montas’ ability to harness these tools effectively to produce results that meet, if not exceed, expectations. That prospect, alongside his evolving pitching techniques, suggests a tangible upside. "The ingredients are here for better numbers," remains a recurring theme within the Mets’ camp, reflecting their confidence in Montas’ skills.
In conclusion, the Mets have made a calculated gamble with Frankie Montas. While his recent seasons have been tethered by inconsistency and injuries, there is a prevailing belief within the organization that Montas can play a pivotal role in positioning the Mets as formidable contenders. This signing exemplifies the type of forward-thinking approach that has become the hallmark of a team intent on acquiring players who fit not just within a system, but who can also redefine it.
As the MLB season looms on the horizon, all eyes will be on Montas and the Mets, awaiting to see if this pairing can indeed conjure the winning formula. With a blend of experience, strategic ambition, and the right environment, Montas could very well become a cornerstone of New York’s pitching prowess, reaffirming the Mets' pursuit of top honors in the league.