Frankie Montas Moved to Mets Bullpen; McLean, Sproat Options Saturday

The New York Mets have decided to shake up their pitching staff after a tough run that’s kept them near the bottom in starting rotation stats. Veteran right-hander Frankie Montas, who came into the year with plenty of hype, is out of the rotation and will move to the bullpen.

This change comes as the Mets hope to bring in some fresh energy—and maybe a glimpse of what’s next—by promoting a top pitching prospect for a debut against the Seattle Mariners.

Mets Remove Montas from Starting Rotation

The Mets’ rotation has been a headache for most of the season, sitting at 25th in MLB ERA since mid-June. Montas, in particular, has struggled, posting a 6.38 ERA in eight starts this year.

After missing much of the first half with a right lat strain, Montas just never seemed to find his groove. In his last three outings, he gave up 13 earned runs over 11 1/3 innings.

Manager Carlos Mendoza decided that was enough and pulled him from the rotation. Montas will work out of the bullpen starting with Thursday’s game.

The Contract Situation

Montas is in year one of a two-year, $34 million contract. Unless he opts out, the Mets owe him $17 million in 2025.

His struggles this season could really factor into that decision, especially as teams weigh his recent form and health history.

Spotlight Turns to Mets’ Top Pitching Prospects

Now, the focus shifts to who’ll take Montas’ spot in the rotation for Saturday’s game against Seattle. The team has narrowed it down to two intriguing names: Nolan McLean and Brandon Sproat.

Both have turned heads in the minors. Mendoza said they’ve “met all expectations” so far in their development.

Nolan McLean’s Case for a Call-Up

McLean, the Mets’ No. 3 prospect, has put up a solid season with a 2.78 ERA in 16 Triple-A games (13 starts). He’s lined up to pitch Saturday on regular rest.

He’s known for his command and his knack for racking up strikeouts. If promoted, McLean’s debut would be a big moment for the Mets’ youth movement as they try to steady their rotation for the second half.

Brandon Sproat’s Late-Season Surge

Sproat, ranked No. 5 in the system, had a rocky start to the year but has turned things around. Over his last seven starts, he’s posted a stellar 1.15 ERA and stayed undefeated at 4-0.

He’s been working deep into games and keeping hitters off balance. Scouts think he’s just about ready for the majors.

Other Options and Future Considerations

Paul Blackburn was briefly in the mix for Saturday’s start, but he’ll stay on a rehab assignment as he works back from a shoulder injury. So, it’s really down to McLean and Sproat.

The Mets’ choice will say a lot—picking McLean might mean they want someone more polished, while Sproat could get the nod as a reward for his recent hot streak. Either way, fans are watching closely, hoping for a spark in what’s been a pretty up-and-down year.

What This Means for the Mets

Making a move like this in late summer isn’t just about quick results. It’s also about figuring out who might be part of the core going forward.

With the rotation still one of the weakest in baseball, giving top prospects a real shot in the big leagues could help both the players and the club heading into 2025 and beyond.

Final Thoughts

The Mets took Frankie Montas out of the rotation after he struggled. Now, he’s trying to get back on track in the bullpen.

Meanwhile, a promising young pitcher is about to make his debut. This weekend might quietly signal a shift for New York’s pitching staff.

It could be Nolan McLean or Brandon Sproat getting the start. Honestly, Saturday’s game against the Mariners might just kick off the next era of Mets starting pitching.

One thing’s for sure—the newcomer will feel the pressure to step up. The front office is under the microscope too, as they keep tinkering with the roster and hoping for long-term success.

 
Here is the source article for this story: Montas heads to ‘pen; McLean, Sproat options for Mets on Saturday