The Milwaukee Brewers are making headlines as they prepare to acquire veteran right-hander Frankie Montas from the Cincinnati Reds. Though neither team has officially confirmed the deal, sources within the league suggest that the trade is imminent, indicating that both franchises are looking to make strategic moves before the trade deadline.
Trade Details
Milwaukee will send outfielder Joey Wiemer and right-hander Jakob Junis to Cincinnati in exchange for Montas. This transaction highlights both teams' intents to reshape their rosters for the remainder of the season. The Brewers have already been active in the trade market, having acquired Aaron Civale from the Tampa Bay Rays earlier this month and adding right-handed reliever Nick Mears in a minor deal with the Colorado Rockies. This aggressive approach underscores Milwaukee's determination to solidify their playoff prospects.
About Frankie Montas
Frankie Montas, aged 31, is currently on a one-year, $16 million contract. Despite a less-than-stellar performance this season—posting a 5.01 ERA over 19 starts—the Brewers see potential in Montas as a valuable addition. Over his last eight starts, Montas has struggled, recording a 6.41 ERA and allowing opponents a .866 OPS. During this stretch, he has averaged fewer than five innings per outing, indicating potential fatigue or mechanical issues that the Brewers' coaching staff will need to address. However, Montas’ experience and previous success may provide the depth Milwaukee needs in their rotation.
A Look at Joey Wiemer and Jakob Junis
Moving in the opposite direction, Joey Wiemer, a 25-year-old outfielder, is making his way to Cincinnati. In his rookie season in 2023, Wiemer slashed .204/.283/.362 with 13 home runs. As an alum of the University of Cincinnati, returning to his collegiate roots might offer Wiemer a sense of familiarity that could rejuvenate his career. For the Reds, acquiring a young outfielder with potential could prove to be a shrewd long-term move.
Meanwhile, Jakob Junis, who is also on a one-year deal, brings his own set of skills to the Reds' pitching staff. Although details on Junis’ performance this season were not disclosed, his inclusion in the trade suggests that the Reds see him fitting well into their plans, potentially either as a starting pitcher or a versatile bullpen arm.
The Reds' Situation
With a 51-55 record and sitting 4.5 games out of a postseason spot, the Reds are clearly sellers as the trade deadline approaches. Cincinnati is reportedly open to moving rental players, including relievers Lucas Sims and Justin Wilson. Additionally, there is speculation about the potential movement of second baseman Jonathan India, signaling a broader willingness to retool the roster ahead of the 2024 season.
Brewers' Playoff Push
The Brewers, on the other hand, appear well-positioned for a playoff run, sporting a 60-45 record and maintaining a six-game lead in the NL Central. The acquisition of Montas, despite his recent struggles, could provide the rotation depth necessary for Milwaukee to sustain their dominance and build momentum going into the postseason. By adding him to a team already bolstered by other recent acquisitions, the Brewers demonstrate their commitment to contending now rather than later.
In summary, while the finalization of this trade is still pending official confirmation, it is evident that both the Milwaukee Brewers and Cincinnati Reds are making calculated moves to shape their futures. The Brewers aim to fortify their push for the playoffs, while the Reds appear to be positioning themselves for future success by acquiring promising talents like Joey Wiemer and Jakob Junis.