The New York Mets were hit with some frustrating injury news to kick off the week. After being one of their key offseason signings to address holes in the starting rotation, it was revealed that veteran arm Frankie Montas has a high-grade lat strain. The injury could sideline him for two months, and then he would need another month of in-season spring training to work back up to speed for the big leagues.
Heading into spring training, there were rumblings the Mets were still on the hunt for another starting pitcher. Montas’ injury puts added pressure on the team to make a depth move to the rotation. With that in mind, we look at five players they could target on the trade and free agent market to replace Montas for the foreseeable future.
Jose Quintana
Bringing Jose Quintana back would be the easiest route for David Stearns and the front office. In his two seasons in Queens, the 36-year-old pitched well, when healthy. If the team wants to bring in an arm they trust but may not need when Montas is ready, Quintana would be a sensible option.
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Lance Lynn
Another player the New York Mets could turn to is two-time All-Star Lance Lynn. What makes him one of the best options is he reportedly let teams know he would be open to moving to the bullpen for the right team and price. Lynn would not only give them a short-term replacement for Montas but would bolster their pen when Montas returns.
Andrew Heaney
Journeyman starter Andrew Heaney had some tough luck in 2024. He pitched okay in his 32 starts but often did not get enough offensive support. It is why he ended the year with a shocking 5-14 record. The 11-year veteran is a capable back-of-the-rotation player that likely would not cost much in free agency. Like Quintana, they could move on from him when Montas is back in a few months. Or he could also turn into a long reliever if he wants to stick around.
Luis Castillo
Now, for the bold part of our list. The New York Mets have been linked to several big trades for star pitchers this offseason. The Montas injury could make them rethink their caution and admit they need more impact arms because they are one injury away from having a mediocre staff.
A player that is reportedly on the block is Seattle Mariners starter Luis Castillo. The three-time All-Star would be a huge addition to the staff. However, it would cost New York assets at the big-league and minor-league levels. But bringing in a player like Castillo and pushing Montas further down the rotation makes the rotation far more formidable.
Dylan Cease
New York has been linked to a Dylan Cease trade for months. However, the asking price is reportedly still too high for the Mets. The team needs more game-changer starters and Cease would certainly be that. Just like Castillo, getting him and pushing Montas down in the rotation is a move the club should have considered even before this week’s injury.
New York Mets Pitcher Prediction
While Mets fans would love the team to trade for players like Cease and Castillo, that’s unlikely. Chances are they go budget shopping for an affordable placeholder for depth. Considering his history with the team, re-signing Quintana is probably the route New York goes.