Notorious former Mariners reliever is Yankees' latest desperation heave

Aug 14, 2025; Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA; Detroit Tigers relief pitcher Rafael Montero (99) celebrates after defeating the Minnesota Twins at Target Field. Mandatory Credit: Jesse Johnson-Imagn Images | Jesse Johnson-Imagn ImagesRafael Montero has spent 11 years in the majors, and Seattle Mariners fans are all too familiar with one of his low points. Yet he has had a weird knack for bouncing back at opportune moments, which brings us to the latest development in his career.

As Héctor Gómez was first to report on Thursday, Montero has joined the New York Yankees on a minor league deal with an invite to spring training. If he makes the major league roster, he'll get a $1.8 million salary and…