Month: December 2024

Frankie Montas Joins Mets: Details of the Two-Year Contract

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Mets solidify their rotation with veteran right-hander Frankie Montas.

A New Chapter in Queens

Frankie Montas and the New York Mets have officially agreed on a two-year, $34 million contract, a move that aims to strengthen the team’s pitching rotation ahead of the 2024 season. The deal, finalized on Wednesday, includes a $17 million annual salary and a notable perk—a hotel suite for road trips. Montas also has a $17 million player option for 2026, giving him flexibility for the future.

A Mixed 2023 Season

Montas, who will turn 32 in March, split his 2023 season between the Cincinnati Reds and Milwaukee Brewers. Despite a challenging year overall, finishing with a 7-11 record and a 4.84 ERA, Montas showed promise during his stint with the NL Central champion Brewers. Acquired just before the trade deadline, he posted a 3-3 record and a 4.55 ERA in 11 starts. His strikeout rate notably increased from 19% to an impressive 28.7% after joining Milwaukee.

Mets See Potential

Mets President of Baseball Operations David Stearns expressed optimism about the signing. “We are excited to bring Frankie into the organization and add a quality arm to our major league rotation,” Stearns said. “Throughout his career, Frankie has flashed some of the best stuff in the game. He’ll provide a stabilizing presence to our pitching staff and can contribute on and off the field.”

Montas’ experience and potential to dominate on the mound make him a valuable asset as the Mets look to rebuild their pitching roster following the departure of key players like Sean Manaea, Luis Severino, and Jose Quintana, who became free agents after the team’s impressive run to the National League Championship Series.

Past Achievements and Future Goals

Montas has had a solid MLB career, boasting a 44-46 record with a 4.09 ERA across nine seasons. He’s pitched for the Chicago White Sox, Oakland Athletics, New York Yankees, and most recently, the Brewers. His standout season came in 2021 with Oakland when he went 13-9, posted a 3.37 ERA, and struck out a career-high 207 batters, earning him a sixth-place finish in AL Cy Young Award voting.

Filling Gaps in the Mets’ Roster

Even with Montas in the mix, the Mets still have work to do. The team is actively seeking bullpen reinforcements to support closer Edwin Díaz and will need to address the loss of Pete Alonso, who became a free agent after hitting 34 home runs in 2023. Minor league signings like Génesis Cabrera and Joey Meneses could also play a role in spring training as the Mets prepare for another competitive season.

A Calculated Gamble

While Montas missed most of the 2023 season due to shoulder surgery, his history of strong performances makes him a high-upside addition to the Mets’ roster. If he can return to his 2021 form, Montas could become a critical piece of the team’s push for playoff success in 2024. For now, Mets fans can look forward to seeing how this veteran right-hander adapts to the bright lights of New York.

 

Mets’ Projected $174 Million Slugger Predicted to Sign With NL Contender

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Pete Alonso’s Free Agency Sparks Debate: Will the Mets Retain Their Star First Baseman?

Pete Alonso: A Pillar of the Mets’ Offense

The New York Mets’ journey to within two wins of the 2024 World Series would not have been possible without Pete Alonso’s contributions. The first baseman’s clutch home run against the Milwaukee Brewers in the Wild Card Series showcased his ability to deliver in high-pressure moments. Since debuting in 2019, Alonso has been a cornerstone of the Mets’ offense, amassing 226 home runs—third-most in franchise history.

Alonso’s consistency is unmatched; he has never played fewer than 152 games in a full season and has surpassed 30 home runs five times. Despite these accolades, his impending free agency leaves a glaring void at first base and uncertainty about his future in Queens.

Will Alonso Stay in New York?

The Mets’ president of baseball operations, David Stearns, faces a pivotal offseason. With the team courting superstar Juan Soto and addressing gaps in the starting rotation, Alonso’s potential departure looms large.

Recent reports suggest a strong possibility of Alonso staying put. Analysts Andrew Tredinnick and Pete Caldera of NorthJersey.com believe the Mets will ultimately re-sign their slugger. However, the contract details remain speculative.

Spotrac has projected Alonso’s market value at six years and $174 million. Yet, The Athletic’s Tim Britton offers a more conservative prediction of five years and $140 million. The final figure will likely depend on market dynamics and whether multiple teams enter a bidding war.

The Waiting Game: Market Influences

One critical factor in Alonso’s free agency is the timing of Juan Soto’s potential signing. Alonso’s market value may hinge on how teams prioritize Soto, a fellow power hitter with MVP-caliber talent. If bidding for Alonso intensifies after Soto’s deal, the 29-year-old could see offers approaching Spotrac’s estimates.

However, if interest remains lukewarm, Alonso’s contract could settle closer to Britton’s projection. Either way, Alonso’s future holds significant implications for the Mets’ postseason aspirations and their ability to maintain a competitive roster.

Mets’ Path Forward

Re-signing Pete Alonso would solidify the Mets’ lineup and keep a fan-favorite player in New York. His offensive production, leadership, and durability make him a valuable asset for any contender. For the Mets, the challenge lies in balancing their payroll while pursuing other top-tier talent like Soto.

The stakes are high this offseason, and Alonso’s next move will undoubtedly shape the Mets’ outlook for years to come.