Mets Frankie Montas Expected UCL Surgery, Likely Missing 2026 Season

New York Mets pitcher Frankie Montas has a torn ulnar collateral ligament (UCL) in his right elbow and will require surgery, with a full Tommy John procedure being very likely. This surgery would cause Montas to miss the entire 2026 MLB season. Montas, who has a $17 million player option for 2026, is expected to exercise that option despite the injury. The Mets have already shut him down for the current season and are planning to rely on replacements such as Nolan McLean and Jonah Tong, both recently called up. Montas struggled this season with a 6.28 ERA and was moved to the bullpen before the injury was diagnosed. The Mets currently hold a 72-61 record and are competing for a playoff spot in the National League East.