Frankie Montas Feels Prepared Ahead of Mets Debut

Frankie Montas appears to be relaxed as he anticipates his upcoming debut with the Mets on Monday. This comes despite a challenging stint in the Minor Leagues, where he posted a daunting ERA of 12.05 across six appearances.

“The adrenaline is going to start,” Montas remarked. While he acknowledges his numbers weren’t ideal, he feels confident in his health and readiness to compete. “Honestly, I feel like I’m ready to go out there and compete,” he added.

Montas signed a two-year deal worth $34 million with the Mets, which includes opt-outs beginning this season. He is joining a struggling rotation after recovering from high-grade strains that have sidelined him since spring training.

Just recently, the Mets placed Kodai Senga on the injured list due to a right hamstring strain, and Tyler Megill is dealing with elbow inflammation. The team briefly utilized rookie Blade Tidwell until Montas was ready last Friday.

Regarding his recent rehabilitation, Montas had mixed results, particularly in Triple-A Syracuse. In one outing, he lasted only an inning and surrendered eight earned runs. In his last appearance, he allowed five runs over five innings.

“I wasn’t really worried about the numbers,” Montas explained. “I was focused on my pitching. Once I get here, I’ll be ready to go, and there’s no limit.” He seems determined to put his focus on the finer points of his game.

Last season, Montas recorded a 4.84 ERA over 30 starts with the Reds and Brewers, pitching 150⅔ innings. He made just one appearance for the Yankees after undergoing shoulder surgery previously.

Diagnosed with a LAT strain in February, Montas said the lengthy recovery was expected given the severity of his injury. “It was a big injury and kind of serious,” he noted, expressing satisfaction with the team’s medical staff for helping him return to form. “I feel like I’ve got my velocity back,” he commented, showing optimism about his condition.

Mets manager Carlos Mendoza views Montas as a crucial addition to the rotation. “He’s going to be a big part of this rotation,” Mendoza stated. He recalled Montas’s impressive performance against the Brewers in the playoffs, which showcased his potential.

Montas’s return is just the beginning of the Mets’ efforts to revitalize their rotation. Sean Manaea is also nearing a rehabilitation stint with Syracuse and could potentially return to face the Brewers next week.

Montas expressed eagerness to contribute to the team. “All teams go through tough stretches at least once a year,” he remarked. “We have a strong group, and we’re supporting each other.” He seemed determined to make a difference, saying, “When I’m in rehabilitation, I feel like I can’t help my team get a win.”