The New York Mets have signed starting pitcher Frankie Montas to a two-year deal worth $34 million, with a player option for 2026. Montas split time between the Reds and Brewers last season, pitching 150 2/3 innings with a 4.84 ERA. This move fills one of the Mets’ three rotation vacancies as they aim to stabilize their pitching staff.
Montas, who will be entering his age-32 season, had made adjustments in the second half of last season that led to more strikeouts. While some of his underlying numbers ranked in the bottom half of the league, the Mets are hopeful that he can thrive in their rotation under the guidance of president of baseball operations David Stearns.
The deal with Montas resembles the two-year guarantee that the Mets gave to pitcher Sean Manaea last offseason, who performed well and is now seeking a more lucrative contract in free agency. Montas returns to New York after spending two years with the Yankees, and will look to build on his successful tenure with the A’s prior to his injury.
With promising tweaks made during his time with the Brewers, Montas improved his numbers following the trade, showing signs of improvement as he increased his velocity and utilized his sinker more frequently. The Mets are banking on Montas to provide stability and innings in the back end of their rotation, as they continue to target undervalued starting pitchers in their quest for success on the mound.
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