PORT ST. LUCIE, Fla. — The New York Mets have announced that right-handed pitcher Frankie Montas, who joined the team on a two-year, $34 million contract in December, will be sidelined for a period of six to eight weeks due to a strained back.

Mets manager Carlos Mendoza revealed on Monday that Montas is dealing with a significant lat strain and is set to travel to New York to receive an injection for the injury. Following this downtime, Montas will require an extensive buildup, similar to what is done in spring training, so it is expected that he will not take the mound again until at least May.

This setback adds uncertainty to a starting rotation that has seen substantial changes over the offseason. Despite Montas’s injury, Mendoza noted that the team has not ruled out continuing with a six-man rotation.

“We’ve got options,” Mendoza stated, emphasizing that it’s still early in the season and further discussions regarding the rotation plans are forthcoming.

The Mets addressed gaps in their starting rotation by securing free-agent pitchers, including Montas, Sean Manaea, and Griffin Canning, while also enhancing their bullpen by acquiring A.J. Minter and two-time All-Star closer Clay Holmes.

Montas’s difficulties on the field are not new; he missed the majority of the 2023 season following shoulder surgery. Upon returning last season, he faced challenges, finishing with a record of 7-11 and a 4.84 ERA while playing for both the Cincinnati Reds and the Milwaukee Brewers.

The Mets are hoping for a smooth recovery for Montas, as they aim to solidify their pitching staff for the upcoming season.