The Detroit Tigers just announced the addition of the veteran right-hander Rafael Montero from the Atlanta Braves in the latest bullpen move before the trade deadline. The Tigers sent the Double-A infielder Jim Jarvis to Atlanta in exchange.
👇 Scroll to Bottom: How Many Times The Tigers Have Made the Play-Offs 👇
Jarvis, who is known for defensive diversity, but hadn’t cracked the top-30 in the Tigers’ prospect list.
Trade Details: Who Went Where
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Montero, 34 brings 11 years of his MLB experience to the Detroit Tigers, which includes his time with the Mets, Rangers, Mariners, and the Astros. He also helped Houston win the 2022 World Series, racking up 14 saves that season.
It’s been a rough 2025 season. Combining time with Houston and Atlanta, Montero’s ERA sits at 5.40 over 39 apperances, with 39 strikeouts, a .211 opponent batting average, as well as a 0-.657 OPS allowed. Statcast ranks him in the top 11 percent in chase rate and 24 percent in whiff rate, but his command struggles shine bright, with a 13.9 percent walk rate.
Montero’s MLB Background & 2025 Performance
The Tigers are hoping that he rebounds in a high-leverage role. He has added a splitter this year that draws a 35 percent whiff rate, though inconsistency remains worrisome. To free up a 40-man roster spot, Detroit designated Tyler Owens for assignment; Montero is expected to slot in for Luke Jackson once roster mechanics are finalized.
The trade is a low-risk, potentially high-reward addition as Detroit works on strengthening its bullpen for the postseason push. Montero is under contract for the season, and the Tigers already hold a lead in the AL Central. This move adds veteran depth without giving up significant future assets.
How Many Times The Tigers Have Made the Play-Offs
Here’s a look at every year the Tigers made it to the playoffs, along with their postseason results. Hopefully, we can add another to this list soon!