Sophia
The New York Mets have been dealt a significant blow to their pitching rotation with the announcement that right-hander Frankie Montas will undergo Tommy John surgery. The procedure, necessitated by a torn ulnar collateral ligament (UCL) in his right elbow, will sideline the Dominican pitcher for the remainder of the 2025 season and all of 2026, with an anticipated return in 2027.
A Costly Investment Sideline
The news, confirmed on Tuesday, September 9, sends ripples through the Mets organization, which had invested heavily in Montas. Last winter, the team signed the veteran pitcher to a two-year, $34 million contract, hoping he would anchor their rotation. However, his 2025 campaign was plagued by injuries, limiting him to just nine appearances.
Montas pitched a total of 38 2/3 innings this season, struggling even before the full extent of his elbow injury was revealed. He posted a 6.28 ERA and a 1.60 WHIP, alongside 32 strikeouts and 14 walks, numbers that clearly indicated his physical struggles. This latest injury further exacerbates a period of instability for Montas in recent years.
The Long Road to Recovery
Tommy John surgery typically requires a recovery period of 14 to 18 months, meaning Montas will miss not only the remainder of the current season but also the entirety of the 2026 campaign. His earliest possible return to a major league mound would be in 2027, a significant setback for both the player and the Mets’ long-term pitching plans.
Impact on the Mets’ Rotation and Future
This development leaves the Mets with a substantial void in their rotation and raises questions about their pitching depth moving forward. While the team still has key players like Pete Alonso, who reportedly feels “great” about the Mets’ position despite the Phillies dominating the NL East, the loss of Montas is undeniable.
The Mets will now need to re-evaluate their pitching strategy for the upcoming seasons, potentially looking to free agency or trades to bolster their staff. The team’s immediate focus will be on navigating the rest of the 2025 season without Montas, while also planning for his lengthy recovery.
Broader MLB Context
The news also highlights the ongoing challenge of Tommy John surgery in MLB, a procedure that has become increasingly common but still represents a significant setback for players and teams alike. As Montas embarks on his recovery journey, the Mets will be left to adjust their plans and seek new solutions to remain competitive in the challenging National League East.
