Mets Updates: Current Standing of Frankie Montas, Recent Developments on Paul Blackburn
Frankie Montas, the New York Mets' starting pitcher, is set to take on the Milwaukee Brewers on Saturday. Montas has had a mixed performance since joining the Mets, with his recent outings showing a decline.
Montas made his Mets debut in late July, pitching five scoreless innings against Atlanta, with five strikeouts, although with control issues. However, his last two starts through early August saw a downturn, as he allowed 12 runs over 8⅓ innings, raising his season ERA to 6.68.
The Mets' manager, Carlos Mendoza, has emphasized the need for Montas to be more competitive and provide longer outings. Historically, Montas has a 5.06 ERA with 14 strikeouts in 3 appearances against the Brewers, which includes one more recent outing in 2024 versus Milwaukee with a 4.50 ERA over 4 innings.
The potential pitching strategy against Milwaukee likely involves Montas relying on his fastball-changeup combination to induce swings and misses and keep the Brewers off balance. Montas' arsenal includes a strong four-seam fastball and an effective changeup, considered his best pitch. The Mets hope he uses these pitches effectively going forward.
Montas signed a two-year, $34 million deal with the Mets over the winter. Despite his struggles, a complete removal from the rotation is not being considered for now. Other potential options for the Mets' rotation include Brandon Sproat or Jonah Tong if Montas' struggles continue.
Meanwhile, Paul Blackburn, a veteran starting pitcher, is recovering from a shoulder impingement and could potentially return to the Mets after his rehab. Blackburn served as a swingman across six appearances before his injury, with a 0-3 record and a 7.71 ERA. He is expected to pitch one more rehab game with Triple-A Syracuse on Friday.
Max Senga is expected to pitch for the Mets on Friday after the off day. A day off between the series allows for a potential creative approach, such as the use of a potential opener in front of Montas in the game against the Brewers.
[1] Montas' Mets debut stats
[2] Montas' recent struggles
[3] Montas' career stats against Brewers
[4] Montas' pitching arsenal
Montas' recent struggles have seen his season ERA rise to 6.68, following a downturn in his last two starts.Historically, Montas has a 5.06 ERA with 14 strikeouts in 3 appearances against the Brewers.
