Frankie Montas' Return: A Legit Threat or Just Filler Behind Strider, Rodón, and Morton?

Frankie Montas has officially returned to Major League action, making his 2025 debut for the New York Mets against the Atlanta Braves. But after months sidelined by injury and a shaky rehab performance, questions remain: can Montas realistically match the calibre of elite pitchers such as Spencer Strider, Carlos Rodón and Charlie Morton, or is he simply a stopgap option in a battered rotation?

Injury Setback and Uncertain Comeback

Montas, 32, was signed by the Mets on a two-year deal worth £24.9 million ($34 million) in December, with an opt-out clause after the 2025 season. He was expected to bring experience and stability to the rotation. However, a high-grade lat strain during Spring Training kept him out for the first half of the season.

During his rehab stint, Montas struggled. Across six minor league outings for High-A Brooklyn and Triple-A Syracuse, he posted a concerning 12.05 ERA with a WHIP over 2.0. According to MLB, Montas remained focused on building strength and refining his mechanics rather than worrying about the results.

In his debut against the Braves, Montas showed flashes of his old form. He struck out Ronald Acuña Jr. with a 96.4 mph sinker, a reminder of the velocity and movement that once made him a rising name in the American League.

How Does He Compare to Strider, Rodón and Morton?

Frankie Montas is returning to a National League landscape that is rich with top-tier pitching talent. Spencer Strider, the hard-throwing ace of the Atlanta Braves, has established himself as one of MLB's premier strikeout artists. Carlos Rodón, now with the Yankees but still very much in the New York media spotlight, remains a power lefty capable of overpowering hitters when healthy. Charlie Morton, though nearing 42, continues to deliver reliable innings and remains a trusted veteran in the Braves' postseason plans.

Against this elite trio, Montas faces an uphill climb. Unlike Strider and Morton, Montas lacks recent consistency. And unlike Rodón, he is returning not only from injury but with question marks surrounding his durability and command.

Pitching Profile: Where Montas Stands

Montas' arsenal remains strong on paper. His splitter, when located well, can generate ground balls and strikeouts. The challenge is repeating mechanics and avoiding the control issues that plagued his rehab.

High Stakes in Flushing

With the Mets rotation missing key pieces such as Kodai Senga, Tylor Megill and Sean Manaea, Montas is not easing back into the fold. He is expected to contribute immediately, which puts pressure on him to perform despite limited recent game action.

Manager Carlos Mendoza has expressed confidence in Montas' readiness, referencing his postseason experience and ability to mix pitches effectively. Still, a few quality starts will be necessary to silence doubts and secure his place in the rotation.

Still More to Prove

Frankie Montas has the tools to be more than just filler. But as it stands, he has yet to prove he belongs in the same tier as Strider, Rodón and Morton. With a high-stakes contract and a rotation spot on the line, his next few outings will determine whether this return is a true comeback or a temporary fix.