Rafael Montero: The Unsung Hero of the Atlanta Braves' Bullpen

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Next steps uncertain for injured Astros reliever Rafael Montero
The Atlanta Braves have been one of the most dominant teams in Major League Baseball in recent years, and a key factor in their success has been the performance of their relief pitchers. One such pitcher who has flown under the radar but has made significant contributions to the team's success is Rafael Montero. In this article, we will take a closer look at the career of Rafael Montero, the Atlanta Braves relief pitcher, and explore his journey to becoming a vital member of the team's bullpen.
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Early Career and Journey to the MLB

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Rafael Montero was born on October 17, 1990, in Higuerito, Dominican Republic. He began his professional baseball career in 2009, signing with the New York Mets as an international free agent. Montero worked his way up through the Mets' minor league system, making his major league debut in 2014. However, his time with the Mets was marked by inconsistency and injuries, which limited his opportunities.
Mets - Baseball Prospectus
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Joining the Atlanta Braves

Rafael Montero is finding himself, even if Mets aren’t
In 2020, Montero signed a minor league contract with the Texas Rangers, but he was traded to the Seattle Mariners midway through the season. It was with the Mariners that Montero began to find his footing as a relief pitcher, posting a 3.09 ERA in 23 appearances. The Atlanta Braves took notice of his performance and acquired him in a trade during the 2021 season.
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Breakout Season with the Braves

Montero's first full season with the Braves in 2022 was a breakout year for the right-hander. He appeared in 65 games, posting a 2.34 ERA and striking out 73 batters in 65.1 innings. His performance earned him a spot on the Braves' postseason roster, where he played a crucial role in the team's run to the National League Championship Series.
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What Makes Montero Effective?

So, what makes Rafael Montero so effective as a relief pitcher? One key factor is his ability to induce weak contact. According to data from ESPN, Montero's opponents have a batting average of just .194 against him, with a slugging percentage of .313. Additionally, Montero's fastball, which averages around 95 mph, has been particularly effective, with opponents hitting just .183 against it. Rafael Montero may not be a household name, but he has become a vital member of the Atlanta Braves' bullpen. His journey to the MLB has been marked by ups and downs, but he has finally found his niche as a relief pitcher. With his ability to induce weak contact and his effective fastball, Montero is sure to continue playing a key role for the Braves in the years to come. As the Braves look to make another deep postseason run, Montero will be one player to keep an eye on.

For more information on Rafael Montero and the Atlanta Braves, be sure to check out ESPN's coverage of the team and its players.

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