**TAMPA, FL – The Tigers’ Keider Montero is turning heads this spring training, and it’s not just because of his fastball. The 25-year-old right-hander shed eight pounds over the offseason, dedicated to making the 2026 Opening Day roster, and he’s showing off the results both physically and on the mound.
Montero isn’t just about a new physique; he’s also revamped his pitching strategy. Gone are the days of easing into starts.
Now, it’s all about maximum effort, every pitch, every inning. We got a glimpse of this approach during the Tigers’ spring opener against the Yankees, despite the 20-3 loss.
Montero allowed three runs on three hits, including a home run, and a walk, with two strikeouts over two innings. He threw 18 of 29 pitches for strikes, but command was an issue.
Still, Montero’s intensity was evident from the get-go. “My body felt good, and my pitches were very good,” he shared, emphasizing his commitment to going all-in, whether he’s on the mound for one inning or nine.
The velocity uptick is noteworthy. Montero’s fastball averaged 96.3 mph, a significant jump from last season’s 93.9 mph.
His slider, curveball, sinker, and changeup also saw boosts. While his velocity did dip slightly from the first to the second inning, sustaining that 96 mph heat could be crucial, especially if he can improve his control.
Montero’s postseason performance has been impressive, with 8⅓ scoreless innings across five playoff games in 2024 and 2025, mostly from the bullpen. However, his regular-season stats tell a different story, with a 4.57 ERA over 189 innings in 39 games during the past two seasons.
Manager A.J. Hinch is optimistic about Montero’s potential impact.
“He took the offseason seriously,” Hinch noted. “He’s laser-focused and prepping for a very important spring.
He’s a consistent contributor, and it looks like he didn’t waste a day getting ready for this opportunity.”
Montero hasn’t posted a sub-4.00 ERA since 2019 in the minors, so his role in the Tigers’ long-term rotation plans remains uncertain. But his versatility could make him a valuable bullpen asset. With the Tigers’ rotation seemingly set with Skubal, Valdez, Flaherty, Mize, and Verlander, Montero is vying for a spot as a reliever, unless injuries open up a starting opportunity.
Regardless of where he lands, Montero’s focus is clear. “My preference is to be in the big leagues,” he stated, eyeing a spot on the roster come Opening Day.**
