The New York Yankees have added veteran right-hander Rafael Montero in a move aimed at reinforcing bullpen depth ahead of the 2026 season. Montero, 35, brings experience, swing-and-miss stuff, and postseason exposure to a Yankees relief corps that has been retooled this winter. The signing is viewed as a low-risk, upside play for a team with championship aspirations. Montero was part of the 2022 Houston Astros World Series team.
A Veteran Arm with Closing Experience
Oct 29, 2022; Houston, Texas, USA; Houston Astros relief pitcher Rafael Montero (47) throws a pitch against the Philadelphia Phillies during the seventh inning in game two of the 2022 World Series at Minute Maid Park. Mandatory Credit: Troy Taormina-USA TODAY SportsMontero has carved out a lengthy big-league career as a late-inning reliever, highlighted by a breakout campaign in Houston earlier in the decade when he served as a high-leverage setup man and occasional closer. Known for his mid-to-upper 90s fastball and sharp splitter, Montero has the arsenal to miss bats — a trait the Yankees value heavily in their bullpen construction.
AdvertisementAdvertisementAdvertisementWhile his performance has fluctuated in recent seasons, the Yankees are betting that a change of scenery and a defined role can help him rediscover consistency. The organization has a track record of refining veteran relievers’ pitch usage and sequencing, often maximizing swing-and-miss rates through analytics-driven adjustments.
RELATED: Texas Rangers’ Nolan Ryan jersey giveaway is a bloody mess
Fit in the Yankees’ Bullpen
Nov 2, 2022; Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA; Houston Astros relief pitcher Rafael Montero (47) pitches against the Philadelphia Phillies during the eighth inning in game four of the 2022 World Series at Citizens Bank Park. Mandatory Credit: Eric Hartline-USA TODAY SportsThe Yankees’ bullpen remains anchored by elite late-inning options, but depth has been a priority after injuries and workload concerns exposed vulnerabilities late last year. Montero projects as a middle-to-late inning option who can bridge the gap to the club’s established high-leverage arms.
AdvertisementAdvertisementAdvertisementHis ability to generate strikeouts gives manager Aaron Boone flexibility in tight situations, especially against right-handed power bats in the AL East. Additionally, Montero has postseason experience, something that carries weight in a clubhouse built around October expectations.
Low Risk, Potential Reward
Nov 2, 2022; Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA; Houston Astros relief pitcher Rafael Montero (47) strikes out Philadelphia Phillies third baseman Alec Bohm (28) during the eighth inning in game four of the 2022 World Series at Citizens Bank Park. Mandatory Credit: John Geliebter-USA TODAY SportsFinancially, the deal is not expected to significantly impact the Yankees’ payroll flexibility. It’s the type of move contending teams make to stockpile experienced arms before spring training competitions begin.
If Montero regains command of his splitter and limits free passes, he could emerge as a valuable piece in what is expected to be one of the American League’s most competitive divisions.
AdvertisementAdvertisementAdvertisementAs spring training approaches, Montero will have every opportunity to prove he can still be a difference-maker in the Bronx.
— Enjoy free coverage of the top news & trending stories on The Big Lead —
OLYMPICS: Norway skier goes viral after displaying insane Winter Olympics speed
SUPER BOWL: Ranking the last 10 NFL Super Bowl champions
MEDIA: Photos of potential suspect in Nancy Guthrie disappearance released by FBI
NBA: NBA Power Rankings ahead of 2026 All-Star Break
VIRAL: Norwegian Olympics star makes stunning girlfriend admission after winning bronze medal
The post Yankees announce signing of former World Series champion pitcher appeared first on The Big Lead.
AdvertisementAdvertisement
