The New York Mets have made a strategic move in the offseason by signing right-handed pitcher Frankie Montas to a two-year, $34 million deal. Announced late Sunday, this marks their initial foray into free agency as they bolster a rotation that has recently lost key players. At 31 years old, Montas joins a somewhat reshaped pitching staff alongside righties Kodai Senga and David Peterson, particularly following the departures of pitchers Sean Manaea, Luis Severino, and Jose Quintana, all of whom have entered free agency.
Montas’s contract includes an opt-out clause after the first year, an intriguing decision that reflects his desire for a strong bounce-back season following a challenging 2023 marred by injury. Pending a physical exam, Montas’s addition aims to improve a Mets rotation that is vital to their ambitions in the upcoming season.
Historically, Montas has exhibited flashes of front-line starter potential, showcasing a repertoire that includes a strong fastball averaging 96 mph, a splitter, a slider, and a cutter. However, his two combined starts in 2023—with only 1⅓ innings pitched due to shoulder issues—raise concerns about his consistency and health. Last season, Montas managed to produce a 4.84 ERA over 150⅔ innings, which consisted of a respectable 148 strikeouts but also an alarming tally of 66 walks and 24 home runs allowed.
His previous one-year, $16 million contract with Cincinnati reflects his complex history; while being a capable arm when healthy, Montas’s shoulder surgery significantly impacted his market value. It will be crucial for him to regain his form and stability if he hopes to avoid the pitfalls seen last year.
The Mets are engaged in strategic financial maneuvering that has seen a reduction of approximately $150 million from their payroll compared to last season. This considerable saving comes as they navigate the free agent landscape, where high-profile targets like superstar outfielder Juan Soto loom large. Soto, sharing agent Scott Boras with Montas, could potentially enhance the Mets’ lineup, as they actively engage in discussions with various free agents beyond just Soto.
Interestingly, although the Mets are positioning themselves to sign elite talent this winter, they have created payroll flexibility that allows for multiple high-dollar acquisitions simultaneously. This strategy suggests a commitment to continuing their competitive trajectory after a surprisingly successful run to the National League Championship Series, where they eliminated strong competitors before falling to the Los Angeles Dodgers, the subsequent World Series champions.
Starting pitching remains crucial for the Mets’ aspirations moving forward. Despite setbacks, the rotation finished with a commendable 3.91 starters’ ERA due in part to the unexpected performances by their temporary signings last season. While other prominent free agents may have dominated the headlines, the rebuilding of their pitching staff can better prepare the Mets for a robust playoff run next season. The Montas signing is one of many moves that could ultimately redefine the team’s identity as they seek to bolster their competitiveness in a tough National League landscape.