Frankie Montas might find himself in a new and unusual role following some challenging performances.
Struggling with a 13.17 ERA over five rehab outings, he’s now being considered for a position in the bullpen once he’s back on track.
After starting another rehabilitation stint with Triple-A Syracuse, coach Carlos Mendoza mentioned, “After this, we’ll make a decision.”
Montas indicated that most of his career has been as a starter since 2015, but if the Mets think he fits better in the bullpen, he’s willing to adapt.
If the Mets have enough starting options, they might get creative. For instance, Montas could potentially “piggyback” off a starter for a couple of innings.
“Whatever they decide, I’m here to help,” Montas stated ahead of the Mets’ game against the Rays at Citifield on Saturday.
To contribute, Montas needs to address the mechanical issues that have plagued him during stints in both High-A Brooklyn and Syracuse.
The right-hander, who signed with the Mets for $34 million over two years this past winter, has faced difficulties, allowing 20 runs in just 13⅔ innings at the minor league level, including eight runs in one outing against the Yankees’ affiliate.
Montas mentioned he is still working on sorting through his mechanics and finding the right arm slot.
Though he’s been sidelined with significant shoulder issues since mid-February, he shared that he feels better physically and isn’t overly worried about the disappointing results.
“This rehab process has been good. They’ve done a fantastic job with my shoulder,” he noted. “I think I feel stronger in my arms and shoulders than I have in a while.”
His 30-day rehabilitation window expires after June 22, leaving room for maybe one more rehab appearance unless he transitions to a relief role with Syracuse sooner.
“I hope he gets better results with more reps,” Mendoza commented.
Even with Kodai Senga sidelined due to a Grade 1 hamstring strain for at least a month, the Mets are currently focused on their other pitchers.
David Peterson and Clay Holmes are both performing well with sub-3.00 ERAs.
Griffin Canning, who has a 3.22 ERA, has impressed beyond expectations since joining.
Tylor Megill, with a 3.76 ERA, is also seen as one of the top fifth starters in baseball, contributing to a rotation that boasts an impressive 2.78 ERA overall.
This success comes despite the absence of Sean Manaea, who is returning from an oblique strain and has already made two starts in Brooklyn.
Montas is expected to make his third rehab start on Sunday.
Although he may be several weeks away from rejoining the team, the Mets appear to be in a good position with their current pitching staff.
Given Montas’ reputation, many still see him fitting into the rotation.
Throughout his nine years in the majors, he holds a 4.09 ERA and ranked sixth in the AL Cy Young voting in 2021, which played into the Mets’ decision to invest in him, believing he holds significant potential.
However, Montas’ ongoing health issues have raised some doubts about his capability.
“It’s similar to spring training where results aren’t the main focus right away. If you ease into it, you’ll want to start seeing improvement down the line,” said Mets executive David Stearns.
Last week, before Senga went on the injured list, Canning expressed his willingness to pitch from the bullpen if that aligned with the team’s needs.
Montas mentioned that he aims to make himself valuable in whatever role he finds himself in this season.
“It’s been tough not being able to help,” Montas reflected. “I want to contribute to the team’s success.”
