In a move signaling their intent to bolster the pitching rotation for a playoff push, the Milwaukee Brewers are on the cusp of acquiring veteran right-hander Frankie Montas from the Cincinnati Reds. Although neither team has officially confirmed the deal, sources within the league suggest that the trade's announcement is imminent.
Details of the Trade
The agreement will see the Brewers send outfielder Joey Wiemer and right-handed pitcher Jakob Junis to Cincinnati in exchange for Montas. This transaction represents a blend of strategic necessity and tactical flexibility, as each team aims to enhance its roster to meet its current objectives.
Frankie Montas: A Mixed Bag
Montas, who is 31 years old and currently on a one-year, $16 million contract, brings a seasoned presence to the Brewers' rotation. However, his performance this season has fluctuated. Over 19 starts, Montas has recorded a 5.01 ERA in 93 1/3 innings. His recent outings have been particularly troubling, yielding a 6.41 ERA and a .866 opponent's OPS over his last eight starts, during which he averaged fewer than five innings per outing.
Despite these struggles, the Brewers evidently see potential in Montas, hoping that a change of scenery and the pressures of a playoff race will ignite a turnaround.
Milwaukee's Recent Moves
This trade represents the Brewers' latest effort to refine their pitching staff. Earlier this month, they acquired Aaron Civale from the Tampa Bay Rays, a move aimed at shoring up the starting rotation. Additionally, Milwaukee added right-handed reliever Nick Mears in a minor trade with the Colorado Rockies, further enhancing their bullpen depth.
Joey Wiemer's Potential
Heading to Cincinnati in the trade is 25-year-old Joey Wiemer. The outfielder, a University of Cincinnati alum, showcased some power during his rookie campaign in 2023, slashing .204/.283/.362 with 13 home runs. Wiemer’s raw talent and local ties make him an intriguing addition to the Reds' roster, offering both immediate and future potential.
Jakob Junis: The Righty on the Move
Joining Wiemer is right-hander Jakob Junis, who, like Montas, is also on a one-year deal. Junis' inclusion in the trade suggests that the Brewers are willing to part with multiple assets to solidify their pitching rotation for the stretch run.
The Reds' Position
Currently, the Reds have a 51-55 record, sitting 4.5 games out of a postseason spot. Given their standing, Cincinnati appears open to dealing rental players, as indicated by discussions surrounding relievers Lucas Sims and Justin Wilson, and even second baseman Jonathan India. These moves signal a broader strategy to retool and potentially build for the future.
Milwaukee's Playoff Pursuit
The Brewers, sporting a 60-45 record, maintain a six-game lead in the NL Central. Their aggressive dealings underscore their commitment to securing a playoff berth and making a deep postseason run. The addition of Montas, despite his recent woes, fits this win-now mentality, providing a high-upside reinforcement as they navigate the final stretch of the season.
As the trade deadline approaches, the impending acquisition of Montas encapsulates the dynamic nature of the MLB trade landscape. Milwaukee's proactive measures highlight their determination to stay atop the NL Central, while Cincinnati's willingness to part with seasoned players reflects a keen eye toward future success. As fans and analysts await official confirmation, the implications of this trade remain a focal point in the ongoing narrative of the 2023 MLB season.