The Milwaukee Brewers are on the verge of making a significant move that could impact their pennant chase, as they are set to acquire veteran right-hander Frankie Montas from the Cincinnati Reds. This development, while not officially confirmed by either team, has been reported by multiple sources within the league, indicating that the transaction is imminent.
The Trade Details
In exchange for Montas, Milwaukee will send outfielder Joey Wiemer and right-handed pitcher Jakob Junis to Cincinnati. This trade represents a strategic shift for both franchises as they continue to navigate their respective seasons.
Frankie Montas: Veteran Arm for the Brewers
Montas, who is 31 years old, is currently on a one-year, $16 million contract. His performance this season has been somewhat inconsistent; he has posted a 5.01 ERA over 19 starts, totaling 93 1/3 innings. In his last eight starts, Montas has struggled with a 6.41 ERA and an opponent’s OPS of .866, averaging fewer than five innings per outing during this stretch. Despite these recent challenges, Milwaukee is likely banking on Montas’ experience and potential to turn things around as they hold a six-game lead in the NL Central with a 60-45 record.
Brewers’ Bolster Their Pitching Staff
This acquisition will add further depth to the Brewers’ pitching staff. Earlier this month, they secured Aaron Civale from the Tampa Bay Rays and added right-handed reliever Nick Mears in a minor trade with the Colorado Rockies. These moves suggest that the Brewers are focused on solidifying their rotation and bullpen, enhancing their chances for a deep playoff run.
Joey Wiemer and Jakob Junis Heading to the Reds
Joey Wiemer, 25, is a promising outfielder who slashed .204/.283/.362 with 13 home runs as a rookie in 2023. A University of Cincinnati alum, Wiemer brings youth and potential back to the Reds. Jakob Junis, like Montas, is on a one-year deal. As the Reds sit with a 51-55 record, 4.5 games out of a postseason spot, they appear to be shifting focus to the future, considering this trade and the possibility of moving other rental players, including relievers Lucas Sims and Justin Wilson. There is also talk about potentially moving second baseman Jonathan India.
Reds’ Deadline Strategy
By acquiring young talent like Wiemer, the Reds are positioning themselves for longer-term success. Their current standing makes a strong postseason push less likely, so this move to exchange veterans for promising players fits a broader strategy of rebuilding and retooling for future campaigns.
Overall, this trade signifies a crucial period for both teams. For the Brewers, bringing in Montas is a calculated risk with high rewards if he can regain his form and contribute significantly to their playoff pursuit. On the other hand, the Reds’ willingness to move a veteran pitcher for young talent underscores their awareness of their standing and their commitment to building a more competitive team for coming seasons.
As the league inches closer to the trade deadline, the actions of these two teams will be closely watched, potentially foreshadowing further moves. Whether this deal tips the scales in favor of the Brewers or sets the Reds on a new path remains to be seen. For now, the brewing anticipation continues to electrify the baseball community.