New York Mets Face Rotation Shake-Up as Frankie Montas Suffers Lat Injury
The New York Mets have been dealt an early setback in spring training, as newly signed starting pitcher Frankie Montas is expected to be sidelined for the next 6-8 weeks due to a high-grade lat strain. Montas, who inked a two-year, $34 million deal with the Mets this offseason, will be shut down as he recovers, leaving a significant void in New York’s starting rotation.
Injury Forces Mets to Evaluate Rotation Depth
Mets manager Carlos Mendoza confirmed the news on Monday, with ESPN’s Jorge Castillo reporting the specifics:
“Mets right-hander Frankie Montas has a high-grade lat strain, according to manager Carlos Mendoza,” Castillo shared on X. “He’ll be shut down for 6-8 weeks.”
With Montas now unavailable for the foreseeable future, the Mets must determine how they will fill the vacancy in their pitching rotation. The team has options, whether internally or through external acquisitions, but one rumored solution appears unlikely.
Marcus Stroman: A Potential, But Unlikely, Solution
One name that immediately surfaced as a potential fit was New York Yankees starter Marcus Stroman. The former Met is in the first season of a two-year, $37 million contract with the Yankees, which includes a player option for 2026 if he reaches 140 innings pitched in 2025.
Stroman has been the subject of trade speculation leading up to spring training, particularly with his role in the Yankees’ rotation appearing uncertain. However, according to SNY’s Andy Martino, a reunion between Stroman and the Mets is highly unlikely.
While Stroman has expressed a desire to remain a starter, rather than transition to the bullpen, the Mets appear poised to seek alternative solutions.
What’s Next for the Mets?
With Stroman reportedly off the table, the Mets may look to their internal pitching depth for reinforcements. Tylor Megill and Joey Lucchesi are two candidates who could step up and fill the temporary void in the rotation. Additionally, the Mets could explore the free-agent market for short-term options.
Stroman, a two-time MLB All-Star, owns a career 3.72 ERA across 261 games (252 starts) and would have brought experience and stability. However, with the Mets seemingly uninterested in a reunion, all eyes will be on how they navigate this latest challenge.
As spring training progresses, the Mets will need to solidify their rotation plan to remain competitive in what is shaping up to be a pivotal season. Montas’ injury is an early hurdle, but how New York responds could define their season before it even begins.
