The New York Mets Have Reportedly Signed Frankie Montas to a Two-Year Contract: Adding to His Team’s Depth

A Crucial Addition to the Team

On Sunday night, the New York Mets made a significant move in the offseason by signing right-handed pitcher Frankie Montas to a two-year, $34 million contract. This deal not only strengthens the team’s roster but also raises expectations among fans for a successful upcoming season. Montas, a seasoned player with great potential, promises to be a valuable addition to the Mets’ quest for championships.

Montas’s Career Journey

Frankie Montas has had an eventful career since being drafted in 2013. He has been traded four times, most recently moving from the New York Yankees to the Cincinnati Reds. Despite a shoulder injury that impacted his previous season, Montas has demonstrated resilience and the ability to recover, traits that will help him quickly integrate into his new team.

Last Season’s Performance

In the 2023 season, Montas posted a 4.84 ERA (Earned Run Average) with 148 strikeouts over nearly 151 innings pitched. His record stood at 7-11 across 30 starts, ending the season with a 3-3 performance while playing for the Milwaukee Brewers. These stats highlight his contributions despite physical challenges. His ability to pitch effectively in limited appearances prior to his trade underscores his enduring potential.

Montas’s Role with the Mets

Joining the Mets, Montas is expected to bolster the team’s pitching depth. Teaming up with Kodai Senga and David Peterson, he will form a solid trio in the pitching rotation. This addition is particularly crucial as several starters from last season, such as Sean Manaea, Luis Severino, and Jose Quintana, have entered free agency. Montas offers flexibility, capable of pitching in various roles from starter to bullpen support, enhancing the team’s strategic options.

Expectations for the Upcoming Season

Montas brings not only experience but also significant potential to the roster. While he may not be a top-tier starter, he has the capability to become a vital bullpen asset for the Mets. With aspirations for a successful season, Montas could play a pivotal role in the team’s strategy moving forward.

Mets’ Broader Plans: Strengthening the Bullpen

The Mets are reportedly planning additional adjustments to their bullpen. They may pursue new contracts with any of the three starting pitchers currently available in free agency. These efforts aim to not only strengthen the roster but also create internal competition, often a catalyst for improved player performance.

Pursuit of Juan Soto

Beyond bullpen enhancements, the Mets are also rumored to be targeting outfield star Juan Soto. This move reflects the team’s ambition to boost their offensive capabilities and improve their standing in the league. Known for his exceptional hitting skills, Soto would be an ideal addition to the Mets’ lineup, particularly as they aim to establish themselves as a formidable force in the league.

Mets’ Financial Position

Recently, the Mets reduced their payroll by $150 million from its previous league-high levels. This fiscal adjustment provides the team with greater flexibility in making new acquisitions while maintaining financial stability. This strategy not only facilitates investments in new players but also creates room for future contract extensions with promising talents.

Strategic Implications for the Team

The reduction in payroll and the acquisition of Montas signal the Mets’ commitment to a clear, long-term strategy. The team is not merely seeking immediate success but is also focused on building a robust roster capable of sustained competition in the coming years. This approach requires careful spending and player development.

A Calculated Step Towards Improvement

Signing Frankie Montas marks a significant step for the New York Mets in preparing their roster for the upcoming season. Montas not only adds depth to the pitching lineup but also aligns with the Mets’ broader plans to remain competitive. With other potential moves on the horizon, fans have every reason to look forward to a more promising season for the Mets.

The Mets are poised for significant opportunities, and with Montas’s addition and other potential roster upgrades, the team could emerge as a strong contender for championships in future seasons. Stay tuned to see how far the Mets can go with these strategic adjustments!