Mets SP Frankie Montas' Change in Physical Appearance Is Turning Heads
New York Mets starting pitcher Frankie Montas appears to be nearing a return from a right lat strain that's sidelined him since camp.
In a May 14 injury update from MLB.com beat reporter Anthony DiComo, the Mets insider noted that Montas is "tiptoeing closer to a Minor League rehab assignment" and "should return in June."
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But his injury progress isn't the only thing that has Mets fans excited.
New York Mets starting pitcher Frankie Montas at Clover Park during Spring Training.Sam Navarro-Imagn Images
On May 14, a fan pointed out Montas' change in physique since January, posting a side-by-side photo within the New York Mets community on X.
In it, he noted that the picture on the left was taken at FanFest in January, while the photo on the right was taken "yesterday," or May 13.
Although the cut-off tank might help Montas' case, he certainly looks more physically fit in the more recent picture. And it's possible that the starting pitcher is in better shape after a long rehab stint with Mets trainers.
What matters most is what Montas does on the mound, however, as Mets fans have come to expect a lot from their starters in 2025.
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The Amazin's currently flaunt a league-best team SP ERA as of May 15. Posting a combined 2.74 ERA without Sean Manaea or Montas.
Will the Mets' famed "pitching lab," led by president of baseball operations David Stearns and pitching coach Jeremy Hefner, help Montas take his game to the next level too?
Only time will tell, but the change in physical appearance is a good start.
If Montas doesn't perform once healthy, it'll be difficult to justify keeping him in the rotation. After all, Manaea is almost back, and pitchers like Kodai Senga, Griffin Canning, David Peterson, Clay Holmes and Tylor Megill have all earned their keep.
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Related: Mets Facing Major Decision After Sean Manaea News
Related: Mets' Juan Soto Sends Yankees Clear Message Ahead of Subway Series
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