As the MLB trade deadline looms, the Milwaukee Brewers are making moves to solidify their pitching staff for a playoff run. According to sources within the league, the Brewers are set to acquire veteran right-hander Frankie Montas from the Cincinnati Reds. In exchange, Milwaukee will send outfielder Joey Wiemer and righty Jakob Junis to Cincinnati. Although neither team has officially confirmed the deal, indications suggest its finalization is imminent.
A Veteran Arm for the Brewers
Frankie Montas, the 31-year-old pitcher, is currently midway through a one-year, $16 million contract. This season, Montas has posted a 5.01 ERA over 19 starts, accumulating 93 1/3 innings. Despite struggling with consistency, evidenced by a dismal 6.41 ERA and a .866 opponent's OPS in his last eight starts, the Brewers hope that a change of scenery might rejuvenate the once-dominant right-hander. During this rough patch, Montas has averaged fewer than five innings per outing, underscoring the challenges he's faced on the mound.
The move to acquire Montas follows Milwaukee's earlier trade this month for Aaron Civale from the Tampa Bay Rays. The Brewers have also bolstered their bullpen by adding right-handed reliever Nick Mears in a minor trade with the Colorado Rockies. With Montas now in the mix, Milwaukee aims to solidify a rotation that has shown flashes of brilliance but lacked depth.
Youth Movement for the Reds
On the other side of the trade, the Cincinnati Reds are receiving outfielder Joey Wiemer and righty Jakob Junis. Wiemer, a 25-year-old and a University of Cincinnati alum, slashed .204/.283/.362 with 13 home runs during his rookie season in 2023. Although his numbers aren't eye-popping, the Reds see potential in the young outfielder who could benefit from a return to familiar surroundings.
Jakob Junis, like Montas, is on a one-year deal and provides additional depth for Cincinnati's pitching staff. With the Reds sitting at a 51-55 record and 4.5 games out of a postseason spot, the organization appears focused on acquiring assets for the future. This strategy aligns with Cincinnati's openness to moving their rental players, including relievers Lucas Sims and Justin Wilson, and even entertaining offers for second baseman Jonathan India.
The Reds' decision to move Montas fits within a broader strategy of rebuilding and preparing for more competitive seasons ahead. By acquiring younger assets like Wiemer and Junis, Cincinnati aims to cultivate a talented roster that can contend over the coming years.
Brewers' Playoff Push
Currently, the Brewers boast a 60-45 record and maintain a six-game lead in the NL Central. With the postseason in sight, Milwaukee's front office is committed to shoring up weaknesses and ensuring the team can compete at the highest level. The addition of Montas, alongside Civale and Mears, addresses the team's need for experienced pitchers capable of handling high-pressure situations.
Montas's acquisition comes during a season where the Brewers have been proactive in the trade market. General Manager David Stearns has demonstrated a willingness to part with young talent to acquire pieces he believes can help the Brewers succeed in October. By securing Montas, Milwaukee not only adds depth to their rotation but also sends a clear message that they are all-in for a deep playoff run.
In the coming days, both teams will look to finalize the deal and any other potential trades as the deadline approaches. For the Brewers, the focus remains on maximizing their current roster's potential and making a strong push in the postseason. Meanwhile, the Reds continue to build for the future, strategically positioning themselves for sustained success in the years to come.