PORT ST. LUCIE, Fla. — Despite the recent injury to Frankie Montas, the New York Mets have decided against pursuing additional starting pitchers, according to sources familiar with the team's plans.  

Montas, who sustained a significant lat strain early in spring training, is expected to be out until at least mid-May, possibly longer. However, the Mets believe their current rotation https://www.storenymets.com/collections/tom-seaver-jersey depth is sufficient to handle the setback. Even if the team were to adopt a six-man rotation from Opening Day—a scenario considered unlikely—they still have seven viable candidates with substantial Major League experience: Sean Manaea, Kodai Senga, Clay Holmes, David Peterson, Griffin Canning, Paul Blackburn, and Tylor Megill.  

The Mets’ strategy this offseason focused on building a deep rotation rather than chasing high-ceiling talent. This approach was designed to ensure the team could withstand injuries without major disruptions.  

“Our starting pitching depth is significantly stronger now compared to last year,” said David Stearns, the team’s president of baseball operations, at the start of camp. “This was a key focus during the offseason.”  

As a result, the Mets are not rushing to make any moves despite Montas’ absence. While the team has engaged in discussions with external starters, sources indicate no immediate plans to sign additional pitchers. Notable free agents still available include Kyle Gibson, Andrew Heaney, and Jose Quintana, the latter of whom spent the past two seasons with the Mets. However, a reunion with Quintana appears unlikely, as the organization prefers to evaluate its internal options first.  

Paul Blackburn, 31, joined the Mets before last year’s trade deadline but was limited to just five starts due to a spinal fluid leak that ended his season. After undergoing surgery in October, Blackburn arrived at camp fully healthy and ready to contribute.  

Griffin Canning, 28, was released by the Angels in November and quickly signed by the Mets. Both Blackburn and Canning are out of Minor League options, making them strong candidates for the Opening Day roster.  

Tylor Megill, 29, is another familiar face in the Mets’ camp. He has been refining a new changeup pitch, which he hopes to use effectively against left-handed hitters. Unlike Blackburn and Canning, Megill still has a Minor League option available.  

Beyond these three, pitchers Justin Hagenman and Brandon Waddell are also competing for spots in the rotation. The Mets view them as the next layer of depth, allowing prospects like Brandon Sproat, Blade Tidwell, and Dom Hamel to continue developing in the Minor Leagues.  

As for Montas, the right-hander recently returned to camp and estimated his recovery timeline at 4-6 weeks, slightly shorter than the team’s initial projection. Regardless of  https://www.storenymets.com/collections/david-peterson-jersey the exact duration, Montas is expected to return by the first half of the season, giving the Mets further reason to remain patient.  

“It’s not about how you start, but how you finish,” Montas remarked. “I’m focused on getting through this process, getting stronger, and coming back better.”  

With their depth and confidence in the current roster, the Mets are opting to stand pat for now, prioritizing internal solutions over external additions.