The Milwaukee Brewers are on the brink of bolstering their pitching rotation with a significant acquisition. According to sources within the league, the Brewers are set to acquire veteran right-hander Frankie Montas from the Cincinnati Reds. In return, Milwaukee will send outfielder Joey Wiemer and right-hander Jakob Junis to Cincinnati. While neither team has officially confirmed the deal, indications suggest that the trade is imminent.
Montas' Performance and Contract
Frankie Montas, at 31 years old, is currently on a one-year, $16 million contract. His performance this season has been a mixed bag. Over 19 starts, Montas has posted a 5.01 ERA, covering 93 1/3 innings. However, his recent form has raised some concerns. In his last eight starts, Montas has recorded a 6.41 ERA and a .866 opponent's OPS, averaging fewer than five innings per outing during this stretch.
Despite these recent struggles, Montas brings veteran experience and the potential to provide stability to the Brewers' rotation as they vie for postseason success. Given his inconsistent performance, the Brewers are likely hoping that a change of scenery will help Montas regain his earlier form.
Brewers' Recent Moves and Current Standing
Montas won't be the Brewers' first addition this month. The team recently acquired Aaron Civale from the Tampa Bay Rays, adding depth to their pitching staff. Additionally, they bolstered their bullpen by trading for right-handed reliever Nick Mears from the Colorado Rockies in a minor deal.
The Brewers currently hold a 60-45 record and maintain a six-game lead in the NL Central. Adding Montas to their roster seems to be a move aimed at consolidating their lead and ensuring they have a robust pitching lineup for the stretch run of the season.
The Trade Components: Joey Wiemer and Jakob Junis
As part of the deal, the Brewers will send Joey Wiemer and Jakob Junis to the Reds. Wiemer, a 25-year-old outfielder, slashed .204/.283/.362 with 13 home runs as a rookie in 2023. Notably, Wiemer is a University of Cincinnati alum, which might ease his transition to the Reds.
Jakob Junis, like Montas, is also on a one-year deal. While details about Junis' performance this season were not provided, his inclusion in the trade suggests that the Reds are looking to add depth to their pitching staff as well.
Reds' Position and Future Moves
The Cincinnati Reds, currently holding a 51-55 record and sitting 4.5 games out of a postseason spot, are in a position where moving rental players makes strategic sense. In addition to Montas, the Reds are reportedly open to moving relievers Lucas Sims and Justin Wilson. There is also speculation about the potential trade of second baseman Jonathan India.
This trade reflects the Reds' intention to retool their roster for the future, potentially focusing on acquiring younger talent and building for the long term. Wiemer's youth and connection to Cincinnati could make him an appealing asset for the Reds beyond this season.
In summary, the Brewers' acquisition of Frankie Montas, pending official confirmation, appears aimed at reinforcing their rotation for the remainder of the season. Meanwhile, the Reds seem poised to leverage this trade as part of a broader strategy to reshape their roster. With the trade deadline approaching, both teams are making moves that could significantly impact their respective futures.