Veteran Pitcher Rafael Montero Joins Yankees Bullpen Competition

35-year-old reliever signs minor league deal with invitation to spring training

Published on Feb. 14, 2026

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The New York Yankees have signed veteran right-handed pitcher Rafael Montero to a minor league contract, giving him a chance to earn a spot in their 2026 bullpen. Montero, 35, has played for seven different organizations over his 12-year MLB career, most recently spending time with the Astros, Braves, and Tigers in 2025.

Why it matters

The Yankees are looking to bolster their bullpen as they aim to make a postseason push in the competitive American League East, which includes the rival Red Sox and Blue Jays. Montero's experience and ability to eat innings as a long reliever could make him a valuable addition if he can secure a roster spot.

The details

Montero's minor league deal with the Yankees includes an invitation to big league spring training and a potential $1.85 million salary if he makes the major league roster. In 2025, he posted a 4.48 ERA over 59 games with three different teams, showing promise with a 2.86 ERA in 20 appearances for the Tigers late in the season. Yankees pitching coach Matt Blake cited Montero's experience as a key factor in the signing, noting his development as a pitcher who can effectively utilize breaking pitches.

  • Montero signed his minor league deal with the Yankees in February 2026.

The players

Rafael Montero

A 35-year-old right-handed pitcher who has played for seven MLB organizations over his 12-year career, most recently with the Astros, Braves, and Tigers in 2025.

Matt Blake

The pitching coach for the New York Yankees.

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What they’re saying

“Experience. Obviously, he's been a good major league reliever, so hopefully he can provide us something, but we'll see.”

— Matt Blake, Yankees Pitching Coach (New York Post)

What’s next

Montero will compete for a spot in the Yankees' bullpen during spring training, facing off against other pitchers like Jake Bird, Brent Headrick, and Yerry De los Santos.

The takeaway

The addition of veteran reliever Rafael Montero on a minor league deal provides the Yankees with experienced bullpen depth as they look to return to the playoffs in 2026 and compete in the tough AL East division.