When the New York Yankees traded for starting pitcher Frankie Montas before the deadline last year, it was seen as a stroke of brilliance by GM Brian Cashman.
He had acquired a pitcher with a 3.18 ERA and the ability to strike people out and get some grounders without giving up any of his top three prospects: Anthony Volpe, Jasson Dominguez, and Oswald Peraza.
Unfortunately, he had endured some shoulder issues a few weeks prior and wasn’t fully healthy.
The Yanks didn’t think his shoulder would be a big problem, but it has been one.
Upon reaching the Bronx, he posted a 6.35 ERA in just a handful of frames, missing time with his shoulder issue.
In the offseason, a few weeks ago, it was reported that he would miss the first month of the season.
And now, he will undergo surgery on that troublesome shoulder and is likely to miss the entire season.
Radio host Keith McPherson reflected on how disastrous the deal has been by throwing out the names that the Yankees traded.
Lost all these young arms for Lou Trivino and an injured Frankie Montas. Fail. https://t.co/Njn6Rr5X8L
—Keith McPherson (@Keith_McPherson) February 15, 2023
Again, the transaction was praised at the time.
JP Sears, Cooper Bowman, Luis Medina and Ken Waldichuk are all good, but are not top, surefire, can’t-miss prospects.
In that group, Waldichuk and Medina are by far the most promising.
The former has seen the big leagues already with the Oakland Athletics and showed flashes, while the latter needs a bit more seasoning in the minors.
No matter if they become aces, mid-rotation starters, or even bullpen arms, the A’s are likely to win the trade because Montas hasn’t been able to stay in one piece and contribute.
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