Spring training was supposed to be a time of optimism, fresh starts, and pitchers getting their work in under the Florida sun. But the Mets’ first major injury of camp hit like a fastball to the ribs.
Manager Carlos Mendoza announced today that right-hander Frankie Montas has been shut down for six to eight weeks with a high-grade lat strain. The 30-year-old starter, whom the Mets were counting on to be a key piece of their rotation, is on his way to New York for a PRP injection in hopes of accelerating his recovery.
“Yeah, I need you a quick injury report,” Mendoza began. “Frankie Montas is dealing with a lat strain. It’s a high-grade lat strain. So, he’s shut down from throwing for six to eight weeks. He’s on his way to New York right now to get a PRP injection, so that’s what we got.”
So, how did this happen? According to Mendoza, Montas reported triceps soreness the day after his first bullpen session. The trainers took a look, and after some imaging revealed significant inflammation, multiple doctors reviewed the results over the weekend. The conclusion? Shut him down.
While the news isn’t great, Mendoza insisted that the team’s starting depth gives them confidence moving forward. When asked if Montas’ injury would force the Mets to reconsider their plans for a six-man rotation, he didn’t waver.
“Not really,” Mendoza said. “We got options. It’s still too early. We’re dealing with an injury to one of our starters, but we’ll continue to have those conversations. Especially at the front end, when we have three days off, we’ll see if we want to go with five. They’re still going to be getting that extra day, and then we’ll adjust accordingly.”
That depth includes Paul Blackburn, as well as Tylor Megill, and Jose Butto. While Mendoza acknowledged that “there’s a reason why these guys are here,” he made it clear that Butto isn’t being viewed as a rotation option just yet.
“We’re not at that point,” Mendoza said when asked about Butto’s role. “Hopefully, we’re not having that conversation. But right now, that’s not on the table.”
Blackburn, who was brought in to add stability to the back end of the rotation, is on track to be ready for Opening Day.
“Yeah, I mean, we’re building him up to be a starter,” Mendoza said. “We’ll see where we’re at by the end of camp, but right now, knock on wood, everything is progressing in the right direction.”
Montas’ absence isn’t just a temporary setback—it’s a lengthy one. After being shut down for six to eight weeks, he will essentially need an entire spring training to build back up. That means a return to the Mets’ rotation may not happen until late May or even early June.
“Yeah,” Mendoza admitted. “He’s going six to eight weeks without throwing, and then a full ramp-up is basically a whole spring training progression.”
Meanwhile, the rest of the team is fully present and accounted for—with one exception. Joey Meneses has yet to report due to visa issues but is expected to arrive tomorrow. “He’s waiting to get his work permit,” Mendoza explained. “He’s allowed to work out, just not play in games until it’s resolved.”
As for the next wave of pitching depth, Mendoza listed prospects Justin Hagenman, Dominic Hamel, Brandon Sproat and Blade Tidwell, but cautioned that they still need development.
All in all, Mendoza’s message was clear: This is baseball, and injuries happen. The Mets’ depth will be tested earlier than expected, but Mendoza believes they are prepared to handle the challenge.
“We know that in order for us to get to 162 plus, we’re gonna need eight to ten guys,” Mendoza said. “Here we are. It’s nothing new for us. Guys will step up. Guys will get opportunities. And we feel good with the options we got.”
Stay tuned, Mets fans. The spring training storylines are just getting started.
Here is the full press conference:
Comments