In a significant setback for the New York Mets, right-handed pitcher Frankie Montas has been sidelined due to a high-grade lat strain. The injury is expected to keep him out of action for at least 6-8 weeks, with additional time required for rehabilitation and pitching buildup. This development casts doubt on Montas’s availability for the early part of the 2025 season, potentially delaying his return until mid-May or later.
Montas, who joined the Mets on a two-year, $34 million contract during the offseason, experienced triceps discomfort during his initial bullpen session this spring. Despite feeling fine upon arriving at camp, further evaluation led to the diagnosis of the lat strain. In response, Montas received a platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injection and has been advised to refrain from throwing for 4-8 weeks. Expressing optimism, Montas believes the treatment will facilitate his recovery and is focused on returning to contribute to the team later in the season.
The Mets’ pitching rotation faces additional challenges, as reliever Drew Smith is in the early stages of rehabilitation following his second Tommy John surgery. Smith, who recently signed a one-year contract with the team, is cautiously hopeful about a potential return by the end of the season.
In light of these developments, manager Carlos Mendoza has adjusted the team’s strategy, moving from an initial six-man rotation plan to a five-man setup for at least the first three weeks of the season. The rotation is expected to feature Clay Holmes, Sean Manaea, David Peterson, and Kodai Senga, with the fifth spot being contested by Paul Blackburn, Griffin Canning, and Tylor Megill. Blackburn, who has overcome significant health challenges, including surgery to repair a cerebrospinal fluid leak, is a strong candidate for the rotation, especially given his lack of minor league options.
Despite the thinning rotation, the Mets currently do not plan to pursue additional starting pitching options. The organization expresses confidence in its existing depth and believes internal candidates can step up to fill the void left by Montas’s injury.
As the Mets navigate these pitching challenges, they remain focused on preparing for the upcoming season, with the hope that their depth and resilience will sustain them through this period of adversity
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