Franke Montas still hoping for another chance with…
After surviving his first outing as a long reliever, Frankie Montas would love to suppose he’s received the cling of his new position.
The displaced beginning pitcher pitched the eighth and ninth innings Friday, permitting one run over that stretch, albeit with three hits allowed and two walks.
Montas was bumped from the rotation last week, leaving Nolan McLean with an alternative to pitch in his major league-winning debut Saturday, which he helped lead the Mets to a 3-1 win over the Mariners at Citi Field.
“They did a good job of giving me time to warm up and everything, so it was pretty good,” Montas, noting that he knew a half-inning forward of time that he can be pitching.
Frankie Montas throws a pitch during the Mets’ Aug. 15 loss to the Mariners. Charles Wenzelberg
Montas’ demotion occurred after he pitched to a 6.38 ERA in his first eight appearances with the membership, starting in late June.
The right-hander, who didn’t pitch in Saturday’s win, missed the first half of the season rehabbing from a high-grade lat pressure.
What is Montas’ focus as he tries to get on monitor?
Frankie Montas reacts during the Mets’ loss to the Mariners on Aug. 15. Charles Wenzelberg
“I am just trying to attack hitters, staying in attack mode,” Montas said. “I am trying to make better pitches and better counts. I am trying to finish guys and understand how my pitches are playing.”
On a crew that has struggled to obtain size from beginning pitchers, Montas might obtain loads of work in his new position, particularly following the departure of Paul Blackburn, who was designated for task following Friday’s recreation — the Mets needed the roster spot for McLean.
The Mets bullpen has struggled these days, but Montas expects that script to flip.
“It’s not just the people in the bullpen, all of us are going through it right now,” Montas said. “It’s hard to point fingers at single guys, but I feel like I have been able to be in the bullpen the last couple of days and see the way these guys prepare for a game. They are just having tough luck. It’s not because they are not preparing well or not trying.”
Montas, who is signed through 2026 — he’s owed $17 million for next season if he doesn’t choose out — said he’s hoping for another shot in the rotation this season if the chance arises.
“I consider myself a good starter,” he said. “I just have to fix what I have to fix and keep working.”
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