In an ambitious move, the New York Mets have secured the services of right-handed pitcher Frankie Montas on a two-year contract valued at $34 million. At 31 years old, Montas arrives in New York with a repertoire that suggests untapped potential, a notion that has the Mets' top brass eager for what he might contribute during his tenure.
A Promising Acquisition Amidst Uncertain Circumstances
Montas' journey to the Mets comes after a season split between the Cincinnati Reds and the Milwaukee Brewers. During his recent campaign, he made 30 starts and posted a 4.84 ERA, coupled with a 2.24 strikeout-to-walk ratio. Despite these numbers, the Mets see more than meets the eye. Public-facing pitch-quality models rate Montas' slider, splitter, and sweeper as above average, suggesting there are "ingredients...for better numbers" with the right adjustments.
The signing is particularly significant as the Mets face uncertainty regarding their pitching staff, with the potential loss of Jose Quintana, who is entering free agency. Historically, Montas has shown flashes of excellence, having made 10-plus starts over six different seasons and earning respect in Cy Young Award conversations, finishing as high as sixth in previous years.
Adjustments and Arsenal
Last season, after joining the Brewers, Montas tweaked his approach by increasing his reliance on his sinker and cutter while using his slider and splitter less frequently. This adjustment speaks to his potential adaptability and the promise of further refining his game. Montas’ pitching arsenal is both formidable and varied, featuring two mid-90s fastballs, alongside a cutter, a splitter, and a slider.
The Mets' decision to sign Montas is part of a broader strategy to deepen their rotation. Last winter, they added Sean Manaea and Luis Severino on short-term deals, reinforcing their commitment to acquiring experienced pitchers capable of delivering pivotal performances.
A Calculated Risk
Montas' performance with the New York Yankees in 2022 was less than impactful, as injuries limited him to only eight starts, and he missed almost all of the 2023 season. However, the leadership within the Mets organization, including top baseball operations executive David Stearns, believes in Montas' capacity for a strong rebound. This belief underscores the organization's ambitions to vie for top honors within the league.
Montas’ arrival is seen not only as an acquisition of talent but as a statement of intent. The Mets are keen to build a competitive and formidable roster that can challenge for supremacy in the National League. Stearns and his team have identified Montas as a pitcher with the potential to make a significant impact, bolstered by the confidence that he may yet rise to a higher level of performance.
Focus on the Future
The addition of Montas highlights the Mets' strategy of investing in players with both established skills and room for growth. They hope to harness his capabilities and refine his game to transform potential into on-field success. With experienced players around him and a supportive management structure, Montas is positioned to exploit these new opportunities and contribute meaningfully to the Mets' pursuit of championship glory.
Ultimately, the Mets' faith in Montas exemplifies their forward-thinking approach — recognizing talent not just as it stands but as it might be cultivated and realized. With the support of a well-rounded team and a management poised for strategic advancements, Frankie Montas could well become an integral part of the Mets' push towards the pinnacle of baseball excellence.