A's Ace Leaves Game After Just One Inning

Being the biggest trade chip left for the rebuilding Oakland A's, this was not what they wanted to see. Ace starter Frankie Montas was pulled from his Sunday start after just one inning, with his velocity noticeably down. It was obvious from his first pitch of the game.

Julio absolutely smokes the first pitch of the game from Montas. pic.twitter.com/Y11e7aBHuX

— Mariner Muse (@MarinerMuse) July 3, 2022

Frankie Montas has tightness in the back of his shoulder. Had trouble getting extended. He’s day to day, per Kotsay.

— Martín Gallegos (@MartinJGallegos) July 3, 2022

It was diagnosed as tightness in the back of his shoulder, and he had trouble getting extended. Montas said he simply hadn't recovered from his previous start:

Montas said he felt he “didn’t recover well” after his NY start. Said soreness is normal but he noted velo dip. Asked level of concern: “To be honest I don’t have any concern. I don’t think it’s anything bad. I just think it’s probably some inflammation.”

— Matt Kawahara (@matthewkawahara) July 3, 2022

“To be honest I don’t have any concern," said Montas. "I don’t think it’s anything bad. I just think it’s probably some inflammation.” 

If Montas is out for any significant period of time, it will severely affect the trade market, with less than a month to the deadline. Along with Luis Castillo, Montas was the top starting pitcher available. Interested teams might have to go to some backup plans.

Photo Credit: Joe Nicholson-USA TODAY Sports