*Photo from the Dallas Morning News*
The Seattle Mariners have acquired RHP Rafael Montero from the Texas Rangers in exchange for prospect Jose Corniell and a player to be named later, according to announcements made by both teams. Montero served as the Rangers closer in 2020, and he should get the chance to compete for that same job with the Mariners, especially after trading Edwin Diaz to the Mets after the 2018 season.
Montero had a good season with the Rangers in 2020, posting an 0-1 record with a 4.08 ERA and 19 strikeouts in 17 2/3 innings pitched in 2020. Montero also picked up 8 saves in 8 opportunities, otherwise known as a 1.000 save percentage. In his career, Montero has a 8-17 record with a 4.93 ERA in 97 total appearances, 30 of which were starts. Montero has spent his 6 major league seasons with the Rangers and the New York Mets, with 2020 being his first year as a closer.
Mariners GM Jerry Dipoto said about the trade for Montero that "Rafael is a solid addition to our ongoing efforts to fortify the bullpen, we see his outstanding stuff and quality performance since converting to a full-time reliever as impactful in our bullpen."
Montero underwent Tommy John surgery in 2018, ending his Mets tenure. He then signed with the Rangers prior to the 2019 season, posting a 2.48 ERA in 22 appearances after being called up by the Rangers in July of 2019. Montero has a 4 pitch arsenal, with a fastball, sinker, slider, and changeup. Montero is entering his second year of arbitration eligibility, so he will be with the Mariners through the 2022 season before being able to hit free agency.
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