Yankees New Free Agent Signing with Mets Background Delayed by Visa Issue

Rafael Montero has yet to arrive at Yankees spring training due to visa problems.

Feb. 26, 2026 at 12:07am

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One of the New York Yankees' most recent free agent signings, Rafael Montero, has not yet reported to spring training due to a visa issue. Montero, a 35-year-old right-handed pitcher, previously played for the New York Mets from 2014-2017 and has spent time with several other MLB teams over his 11-year career, including the Houston Astros, with whom he won a World Series in 2022.

Why it matters

Visa issues can sometimes delay players from joining their new teams at the start of spring training, which can impact their preparation for the upcoming season. Montero's experience with the Mets in New York could provide valuable insight for the Yankees, but his ability to contribute will depend on him resolving the visa problem and joining the team soon.

The details

Montero signed with the Yankees about a week ago, but has yet to arrive at the team's spring training facility due to the visa issue. He has pitched in parts of 11 MLB seasons, with a career 4.68 ERA. In 2025, he struck out 8.3 batters per nine innings and had a 2.86 ERA in 20 appearances between the Tigers and Braves.

  • Montero signed with the Yankees about a week ago.
  • Montero has yet to arrive at Yankees spring training due to the visa issue.

The players

Rafael Montero

A 35-year-old right-handed pitcher who has played in parts of 11 MLB seasons, including four years with the New York Mets from 2014-2017.

Bryan Hoch

MLB.com reporter who reported on Montero's visa issue preventing him from joining the Yankees at spring training.

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What they’re saying

“Rafael Montero has yet to arrive at Yankees camp. He's being delayed by a visa issue.”

— Bryan Hoch, MLB.com reporter

What’s next

The Yankees will need to wait for Montero to resolve his visa issue before he can join the team at spring training and begin preparing for the upcoming season.

The takeaway

Visa problems can sometimes delay players from joining their new teams at the start of spring training, which can impact their preparation and ability to contribute early in the season. The Yankees will hope Montero can get his visa situation sorted out soon so he can join the team and provide veteran experience and depth to their pitching staff.