Keider Montero
Breakdown
Performance
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July 5, 2026
Wraps up shutout for first save
Montero walked one and didn't strike out a batter over three scoreless, no-hit relief innings Saturday to record his first career save in a 3-0 win over the Rangers.
Analysis
While it wasn't a conventional save, the 25-year-old right-hander certainly saw high-leverage usage as he tossed 23 of 36 pitches for strikes to complete a combined shutout begun by Jack Flaherty, the pitcher whose return from the IL bumped Montero to the bullpen. Over his last four appearances (two starts), Montero has delivered an impressive 1.42 ERA, 0.79 WHIP and 9:3 K:BB in 19 innings while collecting two wins in addition to Saturday's save. Given the Tigers' issues this year at the back of the bullpen -- Kenley Jansen has a 5.23 ERA and has blown four of 13 save chances, while Will Vest (elbow) and Kyle Finnegan have been charged with five blown saves each -- manager A.J. Hinch could continue to get creative with how he deploys Montero.
July 2, 2026
Earns win in relief Wednesday
Montero (5-5) tossed two scoreless innings of relief to earn the win in Wednesday's 6-2, extra-innings victory over the Yankees. He walked one and struck out three.
Analysis
After blanking Houston across seven innings to earn a win as a starter Friday, Montero shifted back to the bullpen and continued to post zeroes. The righty certainly has more fantasy value in the rotation, but he's proving that he can capably handle a swing role and give the Tigers some length in relief when needed. For now, expect Montero to remain in the bullpen, though he is likely to pick up more starts as the season rolls along.
June 29, 2026
Moving back to bullpen
Tigers manager A.J. Hinch said Monday that Montero will move to the bullpen for the time being, Jason Beck of MLB.com reports.
Analysis
Montero did nothing to lose his spot, as he tossed seven shutout innings versus the Astros his last time out and holds a 3.34 ERA in 15 starts this season. However, Jack Flaherty returned from the injured list over the weekend, and the Tigers will roll with a five-man rotation for now. Montero should eventually be asked to make more starts, but for now he'll likely be used in long relief.