Braves Acquire More Pitching Depth In Deal with Astros

The Atlanta Braves add a potential reinforcement to the bullpen in a trade with the Houston Astros Tuesday night

The Braves add another righty | Erik Williams-Imagn Images

The Atlanta Braves made the move to acquire more pitching depth. They announced the acquisition of right-handed pitcher  Rafael Montero and cash considerations from the Houston Astros in exchange for a player to be named later.

Montero made three appearances this season for the Astros before being moved. He’s pitched four innings and allowed two earned runs on three hits and two walks while striking out five. 

The cash coming in will cover a majority of Montero's $11.5 million salary.

Montero was part of the 2021 Houston Astros team that the Braves beat in the World Series. However, he didn't appear in the postseason that year. He would become a pivotal part of the bullpen the Astros won it all the following year. He had a 1.93 ERA in 10 postseason appearances in 2022.

"He was a big part of the bullpen for a while," manager Brian Snitker said. "They said he had been throwing the ball pretty well. He's got experience in those situation. It's just about getting him back to being himself.

During his career, the 34-year-old reliever has a 4.71 ERA, a 1.46 WHIP, an 87 ERA+ and 464 strikeouts in 466 1/3 innings pitched. 

The Braves will be tasked with seeing how to make the most of this acquisition. The bullpen has had its struggles this season. As a unit, they have a 4.71 ERA. While certain pitchers have inflated this number, it’s cost them a few games. 

They have their track record of reviving careers of older arms, but he has to pan out quickly with the Braves being 1-8 heading into Tuesday. 

They’ve already rotated through a few options this season. Héctor Neris was designated for assignment after two appearances during the Padres series. Jesse Chavez made one appearance and was back in the minor leagues. 

A few arms need to get settled in this season, but a new face that makes an impact immediately would help, too.