The New York Mets have starting pitching issues. It is what held them back from making the 2025 MLB playoffs and is considered the team’s top priority this offseason. Part of being aggressive in the player market is also understanding when it’s time to cut ties with a player.
On Tuesday, the day that qualifying offer decisions are due and MLB teams have to cut their roster to 40-man, the Mets decided to DFA starting pitcher Frankie Montas and dump off his two-year, $34 million deal, which still has $17 million on it. Because the Mets decided to move on from Frankie Montas, they were able to select the contract of prospect Nick Morabito.
More MLB on Heavy: Blue Jays Emerge As Favorite to Land Top Free Agent Kyle Tucker
Frankie Montas Was Not a Great Signing
It’s safe to say that the Mets whiffed on signing Frankie Montas ahead of the 2025 season. In hindsight, Montas had an okay 2024 season with the Cincinnati Reds and Milwaukee Brewers, but things went awry with the Mets in 2025.
Over just seven starts, Montas posted a 6.28 ERA in 38.2 innings. First, Montas dealt with a lat injury that kept him from making his Mets debut until June, and then he tore his UCL, which is expected to keep him out for the entirety of the 2026 season. It came as no surprise that Montas didn’t opt out of his current deal, which essentially forced the Mets’ hand to release him.
GettyOrlando Ramirez/Getty Images
It’s not as if the Mets’ rotation was any better off or worse with or without Montas this season, considering he only pitched 38.2 innings, but this bust signing highlights the importance of David Stears and the rest of New York’s front office staff’s evaluation of starters.
More MLB on Heavy: Yankees Finalizing Deal with Versatile Left-Handed Reliever
New York Mets’ Rotation Outlook
As the New York Mets decide what they want to do this offseason, addressing the starting rotation has to be priority number one. There have been rumors that they could pull off a blockbuster deal for Tarik Skubal. Â That’s because of the talent they have in their farm system, but the more reasonable route seems to be through the free agency market.
Sean Maenea missed most of the 2025 season with an injury and was not the same once he returned. David Peterson and Clay Holmes are the Mets’ top two starters, which seems less than optimal.
The team from Queens will have to make big splashes this offseason in the pitching market if they hope to make the MLB playoffs next season.
More MLB on Heavy: Blue Jays Predicted to Sign Former Philliesâ All-Star Starter
Like Heavy Sports’s content? Be sure to follow us.
This article was originally published on Heavy Sports
The post New York Mets Cut Ties With $34 Million Bust Starter appeared first on Heavy Sports.