Career Timeline of Rafael Montero (baseball): Major Achievements and Milestones

How Rafael Montero (baseball) built a successful career. Explore key moments that defined the journey.

Rafael Montero is a Dominican professional baseball pitcher currently playing for the Atlanta Braves in MLB. He began his MLB career with the New York Mets in 2014 after signing as an international free agent in 2011. Prior to joining the Braves, Montero also played for the Texas Rangers, Seattle Mariners, and Houston Astros, showcasing his experience across multiple teams.

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Full Timeline Career & Achievements

January 20, 2011: Signed with the New York Mets

On January 20, 2011, Rafael Montero signed with the New York Mets as an international free agent.

2011: Signed with the New York Mets

In 2011, Rafael Montero signed with the New York Mets as an international free agent.

May 14, 2014: MLB Debut

On May 14, 2014, Rafael Montero was promoted to MLB and started against the New York Yankees, recording his first major league strikeout against Derek Jeter.

2014: MLB Debut

In 2014, Rafael Montero made his Major League Baseball (MLB) debut with the New York Mets.

April 17, 2015: Sent down to the 51s

On April 17, 2015, Rafael Montero was sent down to the 51s to make room for Danny Muno.

December 4, 2018: Signed minor-league deal with Texas Rangers

On December 4, 2018, Rafael Montero signed a minor-league deal with the Texas Rangers.

July 22, 2019: Contract selected by Texas Rangers

On July 22, 2019, the Texas Rangers selected Rafael Montero's contract and promoted him to the major leagues.

December 15, 2020: Traded to the Seattle Mariners

On December 15, 2020, Rafael Montero was traded to the Seattle Mariners in exchange for Jose Corniell and a player to be named later.

June 14, 2021: Andres Mesa sent to Texas

On June 14, 2021, Andres Mesa, the player to be named later in the trade from December 15, 2020, was sent to Texas.

July 23, 2021: Designated for assignment by the Mariners

On July 23, 2021, Rafael Montero was designated for assignment by the Seattle Mariners.

July 27, 2021: Traded to the Houston Astros

On July 27, 2021, Rafael Montero was traded to the Houston Astros along with Kendall Graveman in exchange for Abraham Toro and Joe Smith.

March 22, 2022: Avoided arbitration with the Astros

On March 22, 2022, Rafael Montero avoided arbitration with the Houston Astros, agreeing to a $2.275 million contract for the season.

August 31, 2022: Recorded tenth save

On August 31, 2022, Rafael Montero closed out the ninth versus the Texas Rangers for his tenth save, the first time he had recorded double-figures in saves in a season.

October 11, 2022: Postseason Debut

On October 11, 2022, Rafael Montero made his postseason debut in Game 1 of the American League Division Series (ALDS) against the Seattle Mariners, earning the win.

November 2, 2022: World Series Title

On November 2, 2022, Rafael Montero relieved in Game 4 of the World Series, contributing to a combined no-hitter and helping the Houston Astros win the World Series.