Brewers and Reds Finalize Trade: Frankie Montas to Milwaukee
In a move that's expected to bolster their rotation as they push towards the postseason, the Milwaukee Brewers are set to acquire veteran right-hander Frankie Montas from the Cincinnati Reds. The trade, which has yet to be officially confirmed by either team, will see the Brewers part ways with outfielder Joey Wiemer and right-handed pitcher Jakob Junis, sources within the league suggest.
The Deal
Frankie Montas, 31, will bring a mix of experience and inconsistency to the Brewers. Currently on a one-year, $16 million contract, Montas has logged a 5.01 ERA over 19 starts this season, covering 93 1/3 innings. However, his recent performance has raised some eyebrows, with a 6.41 ERA and a .866 opponent's OPS in his last eight starts. During this stretch, Montas has averaged fewer than five innings per outing, which may be a concern for Milwaukee as they incorporate him into their rotation.
For the Reds, receiving Joey Wiemer, 25, and Jakob Junis represents both a commitment to a potential future core and a strategic deadline move. Wiemer has shown flashes of talent in his rookie year, albeit with some struggles, slashing .204/.283/.362 with 13 home runs. An alum of the University of Cincinnati, Wiemer will be returning to familiar territory and potentially offering a spark to a Reds team that's hovering outside playoff contention.
Jakob Junis, like Montas, is on a one-year deal and provides the Reds with immediate rotation depth or bullpen flexibility. Cincinnati’s willingness to move rental players such as Montas reflects a broader strategy to retool and potentially move other assets like relievers Lucas Sims and Justin Wilson, and even second baseman Jonathan India.
Strategic Implications
The deal underscores the differing trajectories and strategies of the two teams. The Brewers, with a 60-45 record and a six-game lead in the NL Central, are in a firm position to make a strong playoff push. Earlier this month, Milwaukee added right-handed starter Aaron Civale from the Tampa Bay Rays, signaling their intent to bolster their pitching staff comprehensively. Moreover, the minor trade acquisition of right-handed reliever Nick Mears from the Colorado Rockies further evidences their strategy to fortify their bullpen ahead of a grueling postseason run.
On the other hand, the Reds, currently standing at a 51-55 record and 4.5 games out of a postseason spot, are taking a more multifaceted approach. By moving Montas and potentially other veterans on expiring contracts, Cincinnati is looking to secure assets that can contribute beyond the current season. This strategic pivot reflects both an understanding of their current standing and a proactive approach to future competitiveness.
Future Considerations
The acquisition of Montas by the Brewers can be seen as a gamble with potentially high rewards. If Montas can regain stability and form a solid presence in the Brewers' rotation, it could pay significant dividends come October. Conversely, this move also comes with its risks, given Montas's recent performance woes and inconsistency.
For the Reds, the trade represents an opportunity to cultivate young talent like Wiemer and utilize Junis either as a trading chip or a part of their future rotation plans. Cincinnati's broader willingness to move rental players also opens up intriguing possibilities as the trade deadline approaches, potentially shaping the makeup of their roster and farm system for years to come.
As both teams navigate the intricacies and implications of this trade, fans and analysts alike will be keenly observing how these moves affect their immediate fortunes and future trajectories. While the trade is yet to be officially announced, the reported details provide ample fodder for speculation and analysis as the season progresses.