Frankie Montas Returns to MLB: A Promising Debut

Frankie Montas made a highly anticipated return to Major League Baseball, debuting for the New York Mets after a 79-game absence due to a lat injury. In his first outing of the season, Montas delivered a commendable performance, pitching five scoreless innings against the division rival Atlanta Braves, albeit ending in a 7-4 loss for the Mets.

Strong Performance Under Pressure

Despite the challenging backdrop of facing a formidable Braves lineup, Montas showcased his skills:

• Innings Pitched: 5
• Strikeouts: 5
• Hits Allowed: 3
• Walks: 3

Manager Carlos Mendoza expressed satisfaction with Montas’ performance, stating, “I thought he was good. I thought the ball was coming out well.” One of the highlights was Montas’ signature sinker, which, despite not inducing many swings from the Braves’ hitters, still generated a notable number of groundballs.

Overcoming Past Challenges

Montas’ journey back to the mound wasn’t without its challenges. His minor league rehab assignment saw him struggling with a 12.05 ERA, allowing 25 earned runs over 18.2 innings, including giving up eight home runs. However, manager Mendoza noted improvements in Montas’ recent outings, suggesting a return to form reminiscent of his strong postseason performance from last year against the Milwaukee Brewers.

Key Takeaways from Montas’ Performance:

• Resilience: Managed to work out of two crucial jams in the first and third innings.
• Impressive Stuff: His fastball and sinker were particularly effective.
• Composed Under Pressure: Handled tight situations effectively, demonstrating mental toughness.

Frankie Montas pitches in the first inning of the Mets’ 7-4 loss to the Braves on June 24, 2025. Charles Wenzelberg / New York Post

The Road Ahead

Although Montas did not factor in the decision due to a bullpen collapse in the sixth inning, the signs of a successful comeback are promising. When reflecting on his return, he commented, “I was just trying to go out there and … do my job, get people out.”

What’s Next for Montas?

As the season progresses, all eyes will be on Montas to see if he can maintain his form and contribute significantly to the Mets’ pitching rotation. With future matchups against strong offensive teams, his ability to harness his pitches effectively will be crucial.

For more insights on player performances and injury updates, check out ESPN and Baseball Reference.

Conclusion

Frankie Montas’ return to the majors not only marks a personal milestone for the pitcher but also offers hope for the Mets as they navigate the challenges of the MLB season. With a promising start and a resilient attitude, Montas could potentially be a key factor in the Mets’ playoff aspirations moving forward.