BREAKING: The New York Mets have officially moved struggling right-hander Frankie Montas to the bullpen, a decision announced earlier today as the team grapples with a seven-game losing streak. Montas, who signed a lucrative two-year, $34 million contract in December, has been ineffective since returning from a strained right lat sustained during spring training.
The 32-year-old Montas recorded a troubling 12.05 ERA during six rehab appearances and struggled with a 6.38 ERA in eight games for the Mets, including seven starts. He has not exceeded 5 2/3 innings in any start this season, contributing to a broader issue for the Mets’ rotation. Since June 7, the team has failed to get more than six innings from any starter, except for David Peterson, and currently holds a 22-31 record in that span.
Montas last took the mound on Saturday against the MLB-leading Milwaukee Brewers, allowing three runs (one earned) in just three innings. He is expected to be available out of the bullpen starting this Thursday. Mets manager Carlos Mendoza acknowledged the challenges Montas has faced, stating, “We just need to see consistency — and he’ll be the first one that tells you.”
As the Mets prepare for their series opener against the Atlanta Braves today, they trail the NL East-leading Philadelphia Phillies by six games. The decision to shift Montas to the bullpen raises questions about who will fill his spot in the rotation for Saturday’s game against Seattle. Currently, the Mets lack a long reliever, with Paul Blackburn on the injured list.
To address this gap, the Mets are considering promoting one of two prospects: Nolan McLean or Brandon Sproat. McLean, 24, has been impressive this season with an 8-5 record, 2.45 ERA, and 127 strikeouts in 113 2/3 innings across 21 games. Sproat, also 24, has a 7-5 record and 4.10 ERA with 86 strikeouts in 101 innings. Mendoza confirmed, “They are in the conversation; we just haven’t decided who the guy is.”
This move to the bullpen marks a significant shift for Montas, who has not regularly pitched in relief since his rookie season with the Oakland Athletics in 2017. As frustrations grow among fans and players alike, the Mets are hopeful that Montas can find his footing and contribute positively during this critical phase of the season.
Stay tuned for updates on Montas’s performance and the Mets’ strategy as they seek to turn their season around and climb back into contention.
