The New York Mets have executed a move to bolster their pitching squad by inking a deal with seasoned right-hander Frankie Montas for a two-year contract worth $34 million, subject to a physical examination. This announcement signifies the initial significant addition to the Mets’ pitching lineup for the upcoming 2025 season. Aged 31, Montas brings a blend of experience and promising potential to the Mets’ roster. In the 2024 season, he divided his time between the Cincinnati Reds and Milwaukee Brewers, commencing 30 games and accumulating 150 2/3 innings while securing 148 strikeouts with a 4.84 ERA. Despite his statistics not being extraordinary, Montas has displayed moments of brilliance during his nine-year stint in MLB.
ESPN reports that sources have disclosed an agreement between the Mets and right-hander Frankie Montas on a two-year contract worth $34 million, subject to a physical evaluation. Montas, 31, pitched 150.2 innings with a 4.84 ERA last year, splitting his time between Cincinnati and Milwaukee. He serves as the inaugural addition to the Mets’ fresh rotation.
This signing also marks a homecoming for Montas to New York after a brief and injury-marred term with the Yankees in 2022 and 2023. Throughout his tenure in pinstripes, he only participated in nine games due to recurring shoulder problems. Nevertheless, ahead of his tribulations in New York, Montas was a regular fixture in the Oakland Athletics’ rotation, where he spent six seasons and was recognized for his high-velocity fastball and efficient splitter.
Frankie Montas joins Mets, poised to rejuvenate starting rotation
Montas’s physical condition will undoubtedly be a central concern for the Mets, but the relatively short duration of the contract underscores the team’s strategic risk-taking. Should Montas manage to stay healthy, he could furnish valuable innings and bring stability to a rotation in dire need of fortification.
“Montas is the initial piece in the Mets’ unconventional rotation,” Passan remarked, indicating that the team likely has more plans in store for fortifying its squad. With the Mets aiming to resurge into postseason contention, enhancing the pitching lineup has been a top priority, particularly following the departure of several key pitchers in recent seasons.
In addition to Montas, the Mets are concurrently pursuing superstar free agent Juan Soto, who remains the premier highlight of the offseason market. While Soto’s likely signing has been dominating the news, the Mets are showing a dynamic approach by addressing other areas requiring attention. The Montas deal signifies the team’s determination to construct a competitive roster from multiple angles.
For Montas, this contract offers an opportunity to redeem himself following a series of arduous seasons. His brief stint in New York provides him with familiarity with the demanding environment and expectations that come with playing in that market. Should he rediscover the form that once propelled him to stardom in Oakland, Montas could play a crucial role for the Mets as they strive to re-enter the playoff picture.
As the offseason unfolds, the Mets’ activities in free agency strongly imply their intention to construct a squad capable of challenging in a fierce National League landscape. Montas, on his part, will aim to reciprocate the team’s trust by delivering a commendable performance in 2025.
Image Source: Frankie Montas @ Instagram
