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Injury to Frankie Montas Pushes Mets Toward Signing Lefty Alex Wood for $8.1 Million Deal
With a hole in their pitching rotation, the Mets look to strengthen their lineup with a reliable veteran option.
Montas Injury Sparks Need for New Pitching Talent
The New York Mets entered spring training with high hopes, fueled by a series of exciting offseason acquisitions, including the historic signing of Juan Soto to a staggering 15-year, $765 million deal. They also secured a two-year, $54 million agreement with first baseman Pete Alonso. However, a recent injury to right-handed pitcher Frankie Montas has cast a shadow over those optimistic prospects.
Montas, who had been acquired as a potential starter, was forced to stop throwing after suffering a high-grade lat strain, an injury to the latissimus dorsi muscle in his back. With recovery time estimated at six to eight weeks, his availability for the upcoming season remains uncertain, leaving the Mets scrambling for a solution to their rotation woes.
Mets Eye Alex Wood as a Temporary Solution
As Montas faces a lengthy recovery, the Mets are now turning their attention to free-agent options to fill the gap in their pitching staff. There are still 81 unsigned players on the market, some of whom could be valuable additions to the team. One name that has emerged as a potential target is veteran left-handed pitcher Alex Wood.
Wood, 34, brings a wealth of experience to the table, having pitched for 12 years in Major League Baseball. He spent the 2024 season with the Oakland Athletics but is perhaps best known for his time with the Los Angeles Dodgers, where he helped secure a World Series title in 2020. His postseason contributions included four scoreless innings in two games, playing a key role in the Dodgers’ victory over the Tampa Bay Rays.
A Strong Back-End Option
Wood has been consistent throughout his career, posting a solid 3.78 ERA and 3.66 FIP over more than 200 appearances. Despite battling injuries in recent seasons, including a bout with rotator cuff tendonitis in 2024, Wood remains a dependable back-end option for any rotation. His experience and ability to contribute in high-pressure situations make him an attractive option for the Mets, particularly as a short-term solution until Montas returns.
According to Jason Burke of SI.com, “Wood’s experience would be a nice addition, even if just as a short-term solution.” With the Mets’ rotation still considered a question mark, having a reliable veteran like Wood could help stabilize the pitching staff.
Financial Flexibility and One-Year Contract Potential
Wood is reportedly open to a one-year deal, with Spotrac valuing the contract at $8.1 million. Given his recent injury history and the fact that he remains unsigned as spring training progresses, the Mets may have the opportunity to sign him at a lower cost than initially projected. This financial flexibility could help the Mets balance their budget while still securing a reliable arm for their rotation.
As the Mets continue to adjust to Montas’ injury, the addition of a seasoned pitcher like Wood would offer a stabilizing presence on the mound. Though not a permanent solution, Wood could provide valuable innings and contribute to the Mets’ success during a critical period.
Looking Ahead
The Mets’ pitching staff now faces an uncertain road ahead, but with options like Alex Wood on the table, they have an opportunity to bolster their lineup. Wood’s experience, combined with his World Series pedigree, makes him a solid choice for the Mets to explore as they seek a stopgap solution. If the deal comes to fruition, Wood could play a pivotal role in helping the Mets maintain their competitive edge while Montas works toward his return.