Rangers trade Montero to Mariners for prospect, PTBNL

The Seattle Mariners acquired right-handed reliever Rafael Montero from the Texas Rangers on Tuesday in exchange for right-handed pitching prospect Jose Corniell and a player to be named later, the team announced.

Montero posted a 3.09 ERA and 0.99 WHIP over 46 2/3 innings in two seasons with Texas. The 30-year-old served as the Rangers' primary closer in 2020 when he converted eight saves over 17 games.

Montero could slide in as the Mariners' closer in 2021 as he joins a bullpen featuring Kendall Graveman, Anthony Misiewicz, Brandon Brennan, and others. The club is also looking to add another reliever via free agency and could target former Oakland A's closer Blake Treinen, ESPN's Jeff Passan notes.