The Mets made notable changes to how their rotation is expected to look this season, as New York (NL) picked up ex-Yankee Clay Holmes, plus Frankie Montas & Griffin Canning. The depth is critical, as the Mets are already down one starter. Montas is dealing with a lat injury, likely to keep him out for Opening Day 2025 and beyond.
Montas likely out for Opening Day
Mets manager Carlos Mendoza confirmed on February 17 that a lat strain will keep Frankie Montas shut down for at least six to eight weeks. Since Montas hasn’t been built up yet, it’s likely Montas won’t be ready until at least May.
Montas reportedly felt discomfort after throwing his first bullpen session of the year. An MRI revealed the injury.
The veteran right-hander has dealt with a myriad of injuries over the last two years. Montas missed virtually all of 2023 thanks to right shoulder surgery, making only one appearance during the last weekend of the season. A forearm contusion kept Montas out for two weeks last season, as a member of the Reds.
It’s a tough blow for obvious reasons. Montas joined the Mets after a relatively strong run as Brewer. The 31-year-old struck out 70 over 57 frames with Milwaukee, thanks to solid swing-and-miss stuff. Montas boasts two good fastballs, coupled with an above-average splitter and slider.
As for the Mets, the injury depletes their depth in the rotation.
Who could replace Montas?
Mendoza said that the Mets will need “eight to 10” starters to get through the season. That would be right on par with 2024, as the Mets had 12 different pitchers make a start and nine made 5+ starts.
Right now, the Mets have Kodai Senga, David Peterson, Sean Manaea, and newcomer Clay Holmes as virtual locks, assuming they’re healthy. The Mets are likely to use a six-man rotation, leaving three others — Griffin Canning, Tylor Megill, and Paul Blackburn — as the options for the last two.
All three have their flaws. Blackburn is on the mend after surgery to repair a spinal leak. Megill had command issues, while Canning is an intriguing arm who could benefit from being in Queens like Luis Severino did last season.
And if need be, Brandon Sproat — a non-roster invitee — could force his way to New York for Opening Day.
Be sure to check out what’s going on across MLB, including the Angels’ decision to move Mike Trout to right field.