Cooper Montelbano looks like FDU’s steady Friday-arm anchor with starter upside
In the 2026 season, Cooper Montelbano has been a reliable rotation piece for Fairleigh Dickinson, entering the year as the Opening Day starter and making 9 starts while posting a 4.80 ERA over 9 starts, with a 2-2 record and 1.57 WHIP.[8][1] His 2025 season showed a similar “give us innings” profile: 3-2 with a 4.46 ERA in 8 starts, and he even delivered a strong six-inning outing in a big win over Delaware State.[6][9] The differentiator is durability and trust—he has handled Friday-start pressure despite a torn labrum history that cost him his freshman season, which adds real context to his toughness and value.[11][1]
