Milwaukee Brewers Set to Acquire Frankie Montas from Cincinnati Reds
In a strategic move to bolster their pitching rotation as the playoff race heats up, the Milwaukee Brewers are on the brink of acquiring veteran right-hander Frankie Montas from the Cincinnati Reds. According to sources within the league, the trade, which is awaiting official confirmation from both teams, will see the Brewers sending outfielder Joey Wiemer and righty Jakob Junis to Cincinnati in exchange for Montas.
Frankie Montas: A Mixed Bag
Montas, 31, has had a turbulent season to say the least. Currently on a one-year, $16 million contract, the pitcher has posted a 5.01 ERA over 19 starts, covering 93 1/3 innings. While these numbers don't exactly sparkle, deeper analysis indicates a particularly rough patch in his last eight starts. During this period, Montas carries a 6.41 ERA and a .866 opponent's OPS, averaging fewer than five innings per outing. These statistics have raised eyebrows among fans and analysts alike, casting doubt on his immediate impact for the Brewers.
However, Milwaukee appears willing to take the gamble, potentially banking on a resurgence from Montas as they aim to consolidate their dominance in the National League Central. Currently, the Brewers hold a 60-45 record, leading their division by six games. The acquisition of Montas follows Milwaukee's earlier moves to shore up their pitching staff, including the additions of Aaron Civale from the Tampa Bay Rays and right-handed reliever Nick Mears in a minor trade with the Colorado Rockies.
What Milwaukee is Giving Up
To bring Montas on board, the Brewers are parting ways with Joey Wiemer and Jakob Junis. Wiemer, a 25-year-old outfielder, has shown glimpses of potential in his rookie season, slashing .204/.283/.362 with 13 home runs. An alum of the University of Cincinnati, Wiemer's return to his collegiate city might offer him a fresh start and greater opportunities for growth.
Junis, also on a one-year deal, has been a reliable if unspectacular presence on the mound. With the Reds sitting at a 51-55 record and 4.5 games out of a postseason spot, the addition of young talent like Wiemer and Junis may align more closely with their long-term strategy.
Cincinnati's Broader Strategy
The Reds' willingness to trade Montas fits within a broader pattern of potentially offloading rental players as they navigate a challenging season. There has been speculation about Cincinnati moving other players, including relievers Lucas Sims and Justin Wilson, as well as second baseman Jonathan India. By acquiring Wiemer and Junis, the Reds are clearly focused on infusing younger talent into their roster in hopes of building a more competitive team for the future.
Brewers Focused on the Present
Meanwhile, the Brewers remain firmly focused on the present. Their aggressive approach in the trade market underscores their determination to not just make the playoffs but to go deep into October. The gamble on Montas could pay off handsomely if he can recapture his best form down the stretch.
While neither team has officially confirmed the deal, the sense of urgency from both sides suggests the formalities won't take long to sort out. As Milwaukee aims to extend its lead in the NL Central and secure a favorable position for the playoffs, Montas could well be the wildcard they need.
For now, fans of both teams will watch closely, eager to see how Wiemer and Junis adapt to their new surroundings in Cincinnati and how Montas fits into the pitching rotation in Milwaukee.