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In a significant midseason move, the Milwaukee Brewers have acquired right-handed pitcher Frankie Montas from the Cincinnati Reds. This trade marks a rare intra-division deal between the National League Central rivals.
Trade Details
The Brewers received Montas in exchange for outfielder Joey Wiemer and right-handed pitcher Jakob Junis. This transaction addresses Milwaukee’s pressing need for starting pitching depth as they push for a playoff spot.
Player Backgrounds
Frankie Montas
Montas, 31, signed a one-year, $16 million contract with the Reds last winter. His season has been challenging, reflected in his 4-8 record with a 5.01 ERA over 19 starts. Despite his struggles, Montas has shown potential with dominant performances in previous seasons. This is his fifth trade since debuting in the majors in 2015.
Joey Wiemer
Wiemer has appeared in 19 games for the Brewers this season, providing solid defense and some offensive contributions. The young outfielder has been considered a promising talent within Milwaukee’s farm system.
Jakob Junis
Junis, on the other hand, has been effective in his 10 games this season, posting a 4-0 record with a 2.42 ERA. His versatility and experience make him a valuable addition to the Reds’ pitching staff.
Impact on Both Teams
Milwaukee Brewers
The Brewers, currently leading the NL Central, have been in dire need of pitching reinforcements. With a league-high 16 different pitchers starting games for them this season, stability in the rotation has been a critical issue. Montas’s arrival, along with the recent acquisition of starter Aaron Civale from the Tampa Bay Rays, aims to solidify their rotation for the stretch run.
Montas expressed mixed emotions about the trade, noting the strong bonds he had formed with his Reds teammates and their families. However, he also acknowledged the excitement of joining a first-place team with postseason aspirations.
Cincinnati Reds
For the Reds, the trade represents a shift in focus as they look to rebuild for the future. After languishing below .500 for most of the season, the team strategically decided to move Montas, who is set to become a free agent, to gain valuable assets. The team expects Wiemer and Junis to contribute immediately, with Junis potentially filling Montas’s spot in the rotation.
Conclusion
The Brewer’s acquisition of Frankie Montas from the Reds highlights the team’s commitment to strengthening their roster for a playoff push. As both teams move forward, this trade will likely be scrutinized for its impact on their respective futures. Milwaukee hopes Montas can regain his form and help lead them deep into October, while Cincinnati aims to develop the young talent they received in return.
