"It's not the same Frankie Montas we saw in Oakland and New York" - Ex-Brewers star diffident on newly acquired pitcher's effectiveness
The Milwaukee Brewers acquired right-handed starting pitcher Frankie Montas from the Cincinnati Reds. But former Brewers star Will Middlebrooks is skeptical of the newly acquired pitcher’s effectiveness.
Middlebrooks was an infielder for the Boston Red Sox and Brewers and now works as a baseball analyst. During a segment aired by CBS Sports HQ, he commented on Montas.
"It's not the same Frankie Montas we saw in Oakland and New York, throwing a 100 with the really good split and slider combination," said Will Middlebrooks. (Time Stamp: 5:35)
"This guy's had a lot of injuries throughout his career, and it's cost him some velocity. He can still throw 95, but he's not the same guy. He's not nearly as effective," he added
His analysis underlines the significant decline in Montas' velocity and control. This is quite different from previous seasons when Montas would clock more than five innings per start as he was often depended on heavily by his team during that time.
He was a very strong pitcher for the Oakland Athletics, known for his fastball and disruptive split-slider combo. In 2019, he had a breakout season with the team, going 9-2 with an ERA of 2.63 over 96 innings pitched and booked 103 strikeouts. After having been traded to the Yankees in 2022, though shoulder problems have limited his appearances, he still impressed.
Injuries have subsequently been frequent occurrences for Frankie Montas. Still, there is hope that even given these limitations, he can deliver productive innings at the end of Milwaukee’s pitching rotation.
Brewers get Reds right-hander Frankie Montas at the Trade Deadline
The Milwaukee Brewers secured Frankie Montas from the Cincinnati Reds to strengthen their starting pitchers list. In exchange for Montas, the Brewers let go reliever Jakob Junis and Joey Wiemer, an outfielder in the minor league, with some cash to Cincinnati.
Montas signed with the Reds last winter but will now be able to compete for a division title with the Brewers. Montas’ contract includes a $14 million salary this season and an additional $20 million mutual option for next year, with a $2 million buyout. The Reds are also receiving one million dollars as part of this trade.
Frankie Montas is hoping to regain his form and help the Brewers chase a playoff spot as they try to win the NL Central division title.