TRADE: Braves Acquire World Series Winning Pitcher From Astros

The Atlanta Braves have acquired veteran reliever Rafael Montero from the Houston Astros in exchange for a player to be named later, the teams announced. 

As part of the deal, the Astros are sending $7.7 million to Atlanta, covering over 70% of Montero’s remaining $11.5 million salary. To make room on the roster, the Braves optioned Zach Thompson to Triple-A Gwinnett. 

Montero, 34, brings postseason pedigree to a Braves bullpen that has struggled early, losing four games and posting a 4.09 ERA through the first 10 games of the season.

Rafael Montero could be a really good addition. The new splitter looks really good with a 113 Stuff+ and in addition to replacing the change-up, he’s also not throwing his sinker and slider as much this year which has also shown positive signs. He currently has a 117 Stuff+ on… https://t.co/PRowSQHtXI

— Kevin Keneely (@KevinKeneely1) April 9, 2025

Montero was a key piece of the Astros’ 2022 World Series championship run, putting up a 2.37 ERA in 71 appearances during the regular season and a 2.51 ERA in 15 postseason outings. 

He also contributed to the combined no-hitter in Game 4 of the World Series that year. Since signing a three-year, $34.5 million deal ahead of the 2023 season, Montero has been inconsistent, with a 4.94 ERA across the last two seasons and a stint in Triple-A following a DFA last July. 

Still, Braves manager Brian Snitker sees potential in the right-hander, saying, “They said he’s been throwing the ball really well. He’s a veteran. You kind of get a little excited when you get a guy like that.”

The Atlanta Braves acquired yet another Houston Astros reliever, this one being Rafael Montero. Why did they get him and what should we expect? https://t.co/ZswE4EEiLi pic.twitter.com/XSqBrjNjyP

— Braves Today (@braves_today) April 9, 2025

The Braves, off to a disappointing 2–8 start and facing injuries to key players like Ronald Acuña Jr. and Reynaldo López, are hoping Montero’s experience can stabilize their bullpen. 

This season, he’s made three appearances for Houston, allowing two runs over four innings while showcasing a revamped arsenal that includes a new splitter generating swings and misses. 

With Atlanta taking on only a fraction of his salary, the move is a low-risk gamble on upside—and a possible spark as the team looks to get back on track.

Photo Credit: Erik Williams-Imagn Images