The New York Mets made what they believed was a key offseason move by signing Frankie Montas to a two-year, $34 million deal, aiming to strengthen their starting rotation. But in a brutal twist of fate, Montas has suffered a serious setback, dealing a massive blow to the Mets’ pitching plans for 2025.

Shocking Setback: Montas Shut Down for Months

The soon-to-be 32-year-old pitcher has been diagnosed with a high-grade lat strain, forcing him to be shut down immediately. Doctors have advised that he won’t throw for at least six to eight weeks, and after that, he’ll need time to rebuild strength and ramp up his pitching form.

That means the Mets will likely be without Montas until deep into May—if not longer. The injury couldn’t have come at a worse time, as the team was hoping for a dominant rotation to carry them through the early months of the season.

How Did This Happen? The First Signs of Trouble

Montas first felt discomfort during his very first side session of spring training last week. What seemed like minor soreness quickly turned into devastating news after further medical evaluation.

To accelerate the recovery process, Montas will receive a platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injection, but even with the latest medical advancements, there’s no guarantee of a speedy return.

A Troubling Injury History

If this sounds all too familiar, it’s because Montas has struggled with injuries for years.

🔥 In 2023, he pitched just ONE game due to ongoing shoulder issues.
🔥 In 2022, he managed only 19 starts before undergoing shoulder surgery.
🔥 Now, in 2025, he’s already facing a months-long absence.

The Mets knew they were taking a calculated risk by bringing him in, but this latest setback has fans questioning whether it was worth the $34 million gamble.

Can the Mets Survive Without Montas?

With Montas out, the Mets are now scrambling to keep their rotation intact. The team had big plans for a six-man rotation in 2025, bringing in:

✅ Sean Manaea (returning to the Mets for another run)
✅ Clay Holmes (former closer, now set for a bigger role)
✅ Griffin Canning (added for depth in the offseason)

But without Montas, will the rotation hold up under pressure?

What’s Next for Montas?

The best-case scenario sees Montas returning in late May or early June, but given his injury history, the Mets will likely take a cautious approach.

In the meantime, the team will need to adjust its rotation plans on the fly, while fans can only hope that this isn’t the beginning of yet another injury-plagued season for Montas.

Will this setback derail the Mets’ season before it even starts? Stay tuned—this story is far from over! 🚨⚾🔥