The New York Mets have made a significant addition to their pitching rotation by signing right-hander Frankie Montas to a two-year contract valued at $34 million. This move underscores the Mets' strategic ambitions as they aim to enhance their competitive edge in the league.
Revamping the Pitching Arsenal
Frankie Montas, at 31, brings a diverse arsenal of pitches to the Mets, featuring two mid-90s fastballs, a cutter, a splitter, and a slider. Notably, Montas' slider, splitter, and sweeper are rated as above average by public-facing pitch-quality models. With such a toolkit, Montas has the potential to be a formidable presence on the mound.
Last season, Montas played for both the Cincinnati Reds and the Milwaukee Brewers, starting in 30 games and recording a 4.84 ERA with a 2.24 strikeout-to-walk ratio. His strategic shift while with the Brewers focused on enhancing his sinker and cutter while dialing back reliance on his slider and splitter. This adaptability might prove vital as he transitions to the Mets.
A Checkered Past, a Promising Future
Montas' journey has been marked by both promise and obstacles. He made only eight starts with the New York Yankees in 2022 and was sidelined for nearly all of 2023, a period the Mets have chosen to view as a footnote rather than a verdict on his abilities. Still, his career includes making 10-plus starts in six different seasons and being in the Cy Young Award voting, finishing as high as sixth in a previous season. This blend of experience and potential propels the Mets' faith in Montas’ capability to significantly contribute to the team.
"The ingredients are here for better numbers," suggests a general observation about Montas' potential performance. This assertion aligns with the Mets' belief in the pitcher’s capacity for improvement and impact.
Strategic Movements by the Mets
The arrival of Montas is consistent with the Mets' recent strategy of bolstering their pitching lineup. Last winter, they brought in pitchers Sean Manaea and Luis Severino on short-term deals, a move that has now been complemented by Montas' signing. Amidst the potential departure of Jose Quintana as a free agent, Montas provides both depth and a potential high-impact arm in the Mets' rotation.
David Stearns, the Mets' top baseball operations executive, has been instrumental in assembling a competitive roster that maximizes both current performance and future promise. With Montas on board, Stearns has reiterated the Mets’ intention to challenge for top honors within Major League Baseball. This ambition is reflected in their willingness to look past Montas' less productive tenure with the Yankees and focus on his potential upside.
Looking Beyond the Numbers
Though the numerical snapshot of Montas’ recent season may not dazzle, the Mets are banking on his track record and untapped potential to yield dividends. Montas' ability to recalibrate his pitching strategy, as seen during his time with the Brewers, serves as a testament to his adaptability and resolution. With his diverse array of pitches, he might well reclaim his spot as one of the more effective starters in the game.
For the Mets and their fans, Montas represents more than just a statistical gamble. His presence embodies a commitment to technological insights—leveraging high-rated pitches—and strategic flexibility to stay competitive. As Montas dons the Mets’ colors, both his supporters and skeptics will be watching closely to see if the touted "ingredients" can indeed be transformed into stellar performances on the mound.