Rafael Montero

The New York Yankees signed Rafael Montero to a minor league deal with an invitation to spring training on Thursday.

Fantasy Impact

Montero bounced around in 2025, spending time with the Houston Astros, Atlanta Braves and Detroit Tigers while posting a 4.48 ERA and 1.30 WHIP with 58 strikeouts across 60.1 innings. The 35-year-old will look to earn a spot on the big league roster, likely in a low-leverage role, as he hasn’t posted an ERA below 4.65 since 2022.

The Detroit Tigers have activated reliever Rafael Montero prior to Friday's series opener against the Phillies.

Fantasy Impact

The Tigers added the former Astros closer for a prospect prior to Thursday's trade deadline. He has spent the 2025 season between the Astros and Braves, combining for a 5.40 ERA, although his 4.38 xFIP and 4.31 SIERA suggest some improvement should be had moving forward.

The Detroit Tigers have acquired right-hander Rafael Montero from the Atlanta Braves in exchange for minor-league infielder Jim Jarvis.

Fantasy Impact

In the deal, the Tigers add some postseason experience as Montero won a World Series with the Astros in 2022 when he posted a 2.37 ERA in 71 regular-season appearances. He has worked to a 5.40 ERA in 39 outings between the Astros and Braves in 2025, but his 4.38 xFIP and 4.31 SIERA suggest he has been better than his surface ERA suggests.

The Atlanta Braves have acquired Rafael Montero and cash considerations from the Houston Astros in exchange for a player to be named later.

Fantasy Impact

Montero allowed two earned runs in four innings with the Astros. He is expected to pitch out of the Braves' bullpen, serving in a middle relief role.

The Astros selected the contract of Rafael Montero from Triple-A Sugar Land.

Fantasy Impact

Montero was one of four players to have his contract selected heading into Opening Day as had been previously reported. He will hold a middle relief role in the Astros bullpen to open the season.