3 potential trade destinations for Frankie Montas
By David Hill
Frankie Montas is a difficult pitcher to evaluate. The Oakland A’s starter can have outings where he is untouchable, and then look as though he is throwing batting practice the next time out. His 2019 season was dominant, then he was suspended for PEDs. Montas struggled in 2020 as his “minor back issue” turned out to be a season long problem.
Then came his 2021 campaign. He posted a 3.37 ERA and a 1.182 WHiP in his 187 innings, striking out 207 batters with 57 walks. That performance was good enough to earn Cy Young votes, even if he failed to earn his first All Star berth.
Three possible landing spots for Frankie Montas
It is understandable that teams would be interested in Montas after that performance. He has two years of team control left and will turn 29 years old at the start of the season. It is possible that the best is yet to come, making him an attractive target for those teams looking to upgrade their rotation.
The Oakland A”s have an intriguing trade chip in Frankie Montas. Let’s take a look at three possible landing spots if he is dealt.
Seattle Mariners
The Seattle Mariners have not been shy about their interest in various players on the Oakland A’s should they come available. Frankie Montas is one of those pieces they have stated an interest in.
The Mariners are focusing on winning, and winning now. They have already made moves to upgrade the roster, adding Adam Frazier and Robbie Ray. However, the Mariners have also indicated that they are not done as it pertains to their pitching staff as they are looking to add another arm to the rotation.
Montas would be a good fit for Seattle’s plans. He may not be an ace, but he has flashed the potential to be a solid second starter. The Mariners are hoping that Ray can be the ace they need, but the rest of their rotation is not going to strike fear into the hearts of their opponents. Adding Montas would allow Seattle to move the rest of their starters back a spot in the rotation, allowing for better fits.
There is one very important question about such a deal. The A’s may be loath to deal Montas within the division as they would not want to face him multiple times a season. But the A’s are also going to be looking for the best deal, and everyone knows that Jerry Dipoto will stop at nothing to make a trade he feels will benefit his roster.
The Seattle Mariners are looking to add another arm to their rotation. Frankie Montas could be the piece they need.