Frankie Montas More Optimistic Than Original Projection

Updated Post: Feb. 19 at 9:25 AM

Mets manager Carlos Mendoza originally announced that right-handed starter Frankie Montas would be shut down for 6-8 weeks with a high-grade lat strain. On Wednesday morning, Montas told reporters, “He’s already better” from a PRP injection received this week. Montas said his shutdown period is now expected to be only 4-6 weeks.

Updated Post: Feb. 17 @ 1:51 PM

Per Jon Heyman of the New York Post, it’s a high-grade lat injury for Montas. There is no timetable for his return. According to Carlos Mendoza, Montas will be shut down for 6-8 weeks. He’ll receive a PRP injection in New York.

Original Post: Feb. 17 @ 1:21 PM

The New York Mets entered spring training with their starting pitching rotation being their biggest question. That same rotation now has a situation brewing up. One of the Mets’ newest signings this offseason, Frankie Montas, who the club was counting on to give them innings, has been shut down for reasons yet to be known, per Mike Puma of the New York Post. It’s expected he’ll be out for a “significant stretch.”

Frankie Montas Shut Down

The Mets signed Montas to a two-year, $34 million contract to be a key part at the back end of the rotation. Being a fly ball pitcher, New York hoped Montas would contribute and pitch well in a hitter-friendly ballpark like Citi Field. With Montas now out for an uncertain amount of time, the Mets have to look at the depth of their rotation so early into camp. It was just days ago David Stearns noted he was happier with the team’s pitching depth than last year.

Possible names to step up in Montas’s place include Paul Blackburn, Tylor Megill, and Griffin Canning. There are also prospect pitchers like Brandon Sproat who look to impress in spring training. If the Mets opt to look into the free agent market, Jose Quintana is still available. Quintana spent the last two seasons in New York and was a big contributor for them last season, especially in August and September. He also pitched well during the postseason. The Mets could also go back and search the trade market.

It’s unknown why the Mets shut down Montas. It’s a big injury for New York to deal with for a rotation that needs healthy arms. Last season for the Cincinnati Reds and Milwaukee Brewers, Montas posted a 7-11 record with a 4.84 ERA. Montas has dealt with injuries throughout his career, suffering a tear in his middle finger in 2022. He also missed the majority of the 2023 season after undergoing shoulder surgery.

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