Mets' pitcher Frankie Montas expresses satisfaction with shifting to the bullpen role
Frankie Montas Shifts to Long Relief Role with Mets
After a challenging start to the 2025 season, veteran pitcher Frankie Montas has transitioned from the starting rotation to a long relief role with the Mets. This change comes as the team seeks to bolster their pitching staff and improve their performance.
A long relief pitcher, often referred to as a "long man," enters the game to pitch multiple innings, typically replacing a starter who has been removed early. This role is crucial for bridging innings before the late-inning specialists come in, providing length and stability from the bullpen.
Montas' struggles this season have been evident, with a 6.68 ERA over eight appearances as a starter. Consequently, the Mets have opted to bring in rookie starters Nolan McLean and Brandon Sproat, who have been performing well in Triple-A, to bolster the rotation.
Montas' injury woes have also played a part in his demotion. He suffered a "pretty significant" UCL injury in his right elbow, which ended his season prematurely[2][4][5].
The Mets' adoption of a long man has become a necessity due to their rotation struggles and injuries. Manager Carlos Mendoza plans to utilise Montas in this role to cover multiple innings in relief without exhausting multiple bullpen arms early, which is critical for managing workload and effectiveness in a struggling pitching staff[1][2][4].
Montas himself has expressed his willingness to pitch in the bullpen if it helps the team. He acknowledged his demotion, stating that he is aware of the need to improve his pitch sequencing and accuracy[3].
Despite the challenges, Montas remains respectful of Mendoza and is optimistic about his new role. "I respect Carlos and the decision he made," Montas said. "I'm ready to contribute in any way I can to help this team win."
The Mets are counting on Montas to play a significant role in the bullpen, as the role of a long man has become increasingly crucial for the team over the last two months. With Montas' experience and willingness to adapt, the Mets hope to find stability in their bullpen and improve their overall performance.
[1] Mets Adopt Long Man Strategy to Bolster Bullpen
[2] Montas Suffers UCL Injury, Ending His Season
[3] Montas Embraces Bullpen Role with Mets
[4] Mets Rely on Long Man Strategy to Cope with Rotation Woes
[5] Montas' Demotion to Bullpen a Necessity for Mets
In his new role, Montas will pitch multiple innings as a long reliever for the Mets, a strategy designed to stabilize their struggling bullpen. Despite his disappointing start to the 2025 season and the UCL injury in his right elbow, Montas has shown his willingness to adapt and contribute to the team's success, even if it means moving to the bullpen.
