Yankees Sign Veteran Pitcher Rafael Montero to Minor League Deal

Montero joins the Yankees' roster of low-risk, veteran bullpen depth options for spring training

Published on Feb. 15, 2026

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The New York Yankees have signed veteran right-handed pitcher Rafael Montero to a minor league contract with an invitation to spring training. Montero, who struggled with the Atlanta Braves and Detroit Tigers in 2025, will compete for a spot in the Yankees' bullpen this season.

Why it matters

The Montero signing is emblematic of the Yankees' current roster construction philosophy, which seems to be focused more on low-risk, veteran depth pieces rather than high-profile, impact acquisitions. This approach has drawn criticism from some fans who are used to the Yankees aggressively pursuing star players.

The details

Montero will earn $1.8 million if he makes the Yankees' major league roster, plus a $500,000 signing bonus. The 30-year-old right-hander posted a 5.50 ERA across 36 appearances between the Braves and Tigers last season, a far cry from his more successful years earlier in his career.

  • Montero signed with the Yankees on February 14, 2026, ahead of the start of spring training.

The players

Rafael Montero

A 30-year-old right-handed pitcher who has struggled in recent seasons but is looking to revive his career with the Yankees on a minor league deal.

New York Yankees

The storied MLB franchise that has taken a more measured approach to roster construction in recent years, focusing on low-risk, veteran depth pieces rather than high-profile acquisitions.

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What’s next

Montero will compete for a spot in the Yankees' bullpen during spring training, with the team hoping he can rediscover the form that made him a successful major league pitcher earlier in his career.

The takeaway

The Montero signing is a reflection of the Yankees' current roster construction strategy, which prioritizes low-risk, veteran depth over high-profile, impact acquisitions. While this approach may not excite the fan base, it is designed to provide the team with additional pitching options and flexibility as they look to return to the playoffs.