MILWAUKEE TRADES FOR MONTAS
The Milwaukee Brewers acquired pitcher Frankie Montas from the Cincinnati Reds for outfielder Joey Wiemer, pitcher Jakob Junis and cash.
What does it give the Milwaukee Brewers
The Brewers had already used 16 starting pitchers before acquiring Montas. The hope will be that he can come in and add some stability as the Brewers push for the National League Central division title. He is not a top-of-the-rotation arm, but is more of solid, five-innings pitcher every fifth day. If he can do that consistently, Milwaukee would be more than happy. Montas's contract has a mutual option for 2025, so he could be more than a rental acquisition for the Brew Crew.
What does it give the Cincinnati Reds
After signing with the Reds in the off-season, Montas became their opening day starter. Unfortunately, Cincy did not stay in the playoff race, facilitating this move. Wiemer has the tools to be an excellent defensive outfielder. In 2024, most of his playing time has come in Triple-A. Junis started the season as a starter before a shoulder injury sidelined him. Since his return, he has pitched out of the bullpen. The Reds could leave him there or use him in a similar role to Nick Martinez.
Fantasy impact
Montas has been inconsistent this season, with a 4-8 record and 5.01 ERA in 19 starts. He is not a big strikeout guy, either. Those two factors make him hard to roster. Wiemer is now in an outfield logjam in Cincinnati. If he is sent to Triple-A, that will erase the little value he has. Next season might be Wiemer's chance to bounce back. Junis's injury history may limit him to a multi-inning bullpen role, where he has thrived (2.42 ERA, 0.96 WHIP). Even with those numbers, he does not need to be rostered if not put in high-leverage situations.
