The Atlanta Braves have bolstered their bullpen with the acquisition of veteran reliever Rafael Montero in a trade with the Houston Astros. The Braves received Montero and an undisclosed amount of cash in exchange for a player to be named later. Montero, 34, joins the Braves with a strong arm and a mixed track record, adding depth to Atlanta’s pitching staff as the team looks to strengthen its relief corps. The Astros will cover $7.7 million of Montero’s remaining salary, with the Braves responsible for just under $3 million.
Montero, who is in the final season of a three-year, $34.5 million contract, was originally re-signed by Houston during the 2022-23 offseason. Though his time with the Astros has been less than ideal, Montero has proven to be an effective arm when he’s on his game. In 2023, he posted a 4.70 ERA while striking out fewer hitters than he walked, prompting the Astros to designate him for assignment ahead of the trade deadline. Montero opted to accept an assignment to Triple-A after clearing waivers, where he finished the season with a 4.00 ERA in 16.1 innings.
The right-hander made a successful return to the Astros’ spring training camp this year, earning his way back to the big leagues after a solid performance in exhibition games. Montero pitched 8.2 innings this spring, allowing six runs (five earned) with 10 strikeouts and seven walks. His fastball sits in the 95-96 MPH range, and he’s altered his pitch mix, adding a mid-80s splitter that has been effective against left-handed hitters.
The Braves are interested in using Montero in middle relief, where he could play a key role in bridging the gap between their starters and closer. Montero’s ability to handle high-leverage situations will provide flexibility for Atlanta’s bullpen, especially with other options like Daysbel Hernández and Zach Thompson, who has options remaining. Montero’s arrival could signal a shift in the bullpen pecking order, and he is expected to slot into a prominent role as he joins the team.
This move comes at a time when the Braves have an opening on their 40-man roster following the waiver of Chadwick Tromp, and no further active roster transactions will be required for Montero’s addition. The Braves will likely aim to take advantage of Montero’s experience and arm strength, hoping he can contribute to their postseason aspirations.
