Mets’ Key Pitching Prospect Faces Unfortunate Setback
PORT ST. LUCIE, Fla. (AP) — The New York Mets, who have been assembling a strong roster for the upcoming season, received an unwelcome piece of news regarding one of their key acquisitions. Right-hander Frankie Montas, who signed a two-year, $34 million free-agent contract with the Mets in December, will be sidelined for six to eight weeks due to a strained back. Mets manager Carlos Mendoza announced the news on Monday, revealing that Montas has a high-grade lat strain and will be heading to New York for an injection to aid his recovery.
A Setback for Montas and the Mets
Montas, a seasoned pitcher with a history of resilience, has faced significant health challenges in recent years. He missed most of the 2023 season due to shoulder surgery and only returned last year, albeit with mixed results. In his 2023 return, Montas pitched for the Cincinnati Reds and Milwaukee Brewers, posting a record of 7-11 with a 4.84 ERA. Despite these setbacks, the Mets saw potential in his talent and experience, signing him to bolster their starting rotation. The current injury, while not career-threatening, is a significant blow to the team’s plans for the upcoming season.
Manager’s Optimism and Flexibility
Manager Carlos Mendoza remains optimistic about the team’s ability to adapt to this new challenge. "We’ve got options," Mendoza said, emphasizing that the Mets are well-equipped to handle such setbacks. He also noted that it is still too early to determine the exact impact on the team’s rotation strategy. The Mets have been proactive in building a deep and versatile roster, and this flexibility is crucial in managing the uncertainty brought by Montas’ injury. Mendoza indicated that a six-man rotation, which the team had been considering, remains a possibility, but further discussions will be held to finalize the plan.
A Rotation in Transition
The Mets’ starting rotation has undergone a significant transformation during the offseason. In addition to Montas, the team signed Sean Manaea and Griffin Canning, both of whom bring valuable experience and different skill sets to the team. Manaea, known for his ability to pitch deep into games, and Canning, who has shown promise with his strong arm and control, are expected to anchor the rotation. The additions of these veterans aim to provide stability and depth, which is especially important in the face of unexpected injuries like Montas’.
Bolstering the Bullpen
To complement their starting rotation, the Mets have also bolstered their bullpen. The team signed A.J. Minter, a left-handed reliever known for his effectiveness against left-handed batters, and former All-Star closer Clay Holmes. Holmes, in particular, brings a wealth of experience and a proven track record of success in high-pressure situations. These acquisitions are designed to ensure that the Mets have a strong and versatile bullpen, capable of closing out games and providing crucial relief when needed.
Looking Forward
While the news of Montas’ injury is a setback, the Mets remain confident in their ability to navigate the challenges ahead. The team’s depth and the flexibility of their roster position them well to weather this storm. Manager Mendoza and the coaching staff will work closely with Montas to ensure his recovery and return to form, while also leveraging the strengths of the existing players to maintain the team’s momentum. The Mets’ strategic moves during the offseason, both in the rotation and the bullpen, underscore their commitment to building a competitive and resilient team for the upcoming season.
