Frankie Montas finally found success at Yankee Stadium, this time as a member of the Cincinnati Reds, ending a four-start winless streak. He pitched five-plus innings, allowing two runs and holding the shutout into the fifth, helping the Reds complete a three-game sweep with an 8-4 victory over the New York Yankees.
Montas reflected on his difficult time with the Yankees and acknowledged that his performance was affected by health issues. Acquired from Oakland in 2022, he struggled with a 6.35 ERA in eight starts before shoulder inflammation cut his season short. His struggles at Yankee Stadium were particularly notable, going 0-3 in his career in the Bronx.
“Everyone knows what I can do when I’m healthy,” Montas said. “My time here, unfortunately, was not healthy at all.”
After undergoing labrum surgery in February 2023, the former Yankees pitcher only made a brief appearance that season. He became a free agent and signed a one-year, $16 million contract with the Reds.
Montas expressed his appreciation for the Reds’ trust in him, citing their support as a key factor in his improved performance. He emphasized the importance of being healthy and having the backing of his new team, contrasting it with his injury-plagued time in New York.
“They came to me and gave me the confidence to go out there and tell me that I had a lot to contribute to this game. We trust you. We believe in you,” he said. “Knowing that you have my back when I go out there definitely makes me feel really good.”
The former Yankees pitcher has established himself as a key asset for the Cincinnati Reds, starting the season strong with six scoreless innings in an Opening Day win over Washington.
Reds manager David Bell praised Montas for his major league experience and leadership, highlighting his important role in fostering team cohesion both on and off the field. Bell expressed confidence in his potential, suggesting his current performance is just a taste of what he can accomplish.
Montas has a 4-6 record with a 4.19 ERA in 16 starts this season. His career stats include a 44-47 record in nine major league seasons, with previous stints with the Chicago White Sox, Oakland Athletics and New York Yankees.
Teammate Spencer Steer, who contributed a crucial three-run homer in a recent game against the Yankees, praised Montas’ competitive spirit and work ethic. Steer described Montas as a “bulldog” on the mound, highlighting his tireless commitment and expressing gratitude for his presence on the team.
Following an impressive 2021 season that earned him Cy Young Award consideration, the Yankees acquired Montas from the Oakland Athletics during the 2022 trade deadline. Unfortunately, he struggled in his eight starts with the Yankees, posting a dismal 6.35 ERA and .838 OPS against. His season was further marred by a shoulder injury that had been bothering him since before the trade. Montas made just one postseason appearance during the ALCS against the Houston Astros, allowing one home run.
Despite the setbacks, the Yankees were hopeful that Montas would re-emerge in 2023, as they had him under team control for another year and a half. However, in early February 2023, the team announced that Montas would need arthroscopic shoulder surgery, which would sideline him for most of the season. After the Yankees did not renew his contract, the right-hander landed a one-year, $16 million deal to come to Cincinnati.
His current performance contradicts the Yankees’ predictions. Did they give up too soon?
What do you think? Leave your comment below.
