Mets’ Frankie Montas to Undergo Tommy John Surgery, Likely Out Until 2027

PHILADELPHIA — New York Mets right-hander Frankie Montas is scheduled to undergo major elbow surgery Tuesday that is expected to be a full Tommy John (UCL) repair, sources told The Post, a procedure likely to keep him sidelined through 2026 with a return not expected until 2027.

Imaging revealed a tear in Montas’ right ulnar collateral ligament after the veteran felt soreness while in the bullpen. Montas, who missed the first half of the season with a lat strain, was 3-2 with a 6.28 ERA at the time of the diagnosis and had recently been moved from the starting rotation to a relief role.

Tommy John surgery typically requires at least 12 to 14 months of rehabilitation for starting pitchers, a timeline that would push Montas’ return into the 2027 season. The Mets will proceed with the surgical plan after the team reviewed imaging and consulted with medical staff, according to the sources.

Montas signed a two-year, $34 million contract with the Mets in the offseason that includes a $17 million player option for 2026. The injury complicates New York’s depth plans and roster construction, as the club has invested in Montas as part of its rotation overhaul this winter.

A right-handed veteran, Montas has shown the ability to succeed at times with previous clubs but has also battled injuries in recent years. His 2025 season was already interrupted by the lat strain that cost him the first half, and his recent move to the bullpen preceded the elbow soreness that led to further testing and the UCL diagnosis.

The Mets declined comment beyond confirming that Montas would have surgery, and the team will provide updates on his status, recovery timetable and roster implications as they become available. The organization now faces decisions on rotation depth, potential callups and bullpen usage while Montas is rehabbing.

League medical data and team sources indicate that recovery outcomes after Tommy John surgery can vary by pitcher and by situation, with many starters returning to previous levels after a successful rehab but others experiencing setbacks or altered roles. Montas’ immediate focus will be on surgery and the lengthy rehabilitation process that follows.

Further details, including the surgical facility, the specific procedure to be performed and an official timetable, were expected to be released by the Mets following the operation.