Examining The Ian Desmond To Mets Trade Scenario

Sep 27, 2014; New York, NY, USA; New York Mets starting pitcher

(50) pitches during the first inning against the Houston Astros at Citi Field. Mandatory Credit: Anthony Gruppuso-USA TODAY Sports

 RHP Rafael Montero

Montero doesn’t have the potential that Syndergaard, but he could still be a piece that would work well in the Nats’ rotation for future years. The 24-year-old is the number six prospect in the Mets’ organization, according to MLB Pipeline.

Last season, Montero got a chance to be in the Mets’ rotation. He made ten starts, going 1-3 with a 4.06 ERA. One of those starts came against the Nats when the righty went five innings, giving up five runs on seven hits in a loss While he had six or more K’s in four of those starts, the walks are a concern.

In those ten games, Montero had a walks per nine innings of a little under five (4.7). If you look at his numbers out in Las Vegas, he was 6-4 in 16 starts with a 3.80 ERA as he struck out nine batters per nine innings.

Montero has the stuff to be successful as he has a fastball that can go up to 95 miles per hour, a solid breaking ball, and a changeup, the command has to be worked on, especially when you walk almost four batters per nine innings in the minor leagues.

I don’t think Montero could be the centerpiece of a deal, but I do think he has the stuff to succeed at the Major League level if he stops giving up all the free passes. With the talent in the Nationals’ rotation, Montero would have time to at least start the season in Syracuse. He’s good, but not Syndergaard good.