30 Facts About Kirby Yates

Early Life and Education

Kirby Yates's journey to MLB stardom began in the picturesque town of Lihue, Hawaii. His early years were filled with a passion for baseball that would shape his future.

1. 01Yates grew up in Lihue, Hawaii, and attended Kauai High School.
2. 02His talent was evident early on, leading to his selection by the Boston Red Sox in the 26th round of the 2005 MLB draft.
3. 03Instead of signing with the Red Sox, Yates chose to attend Yavapai College to further hone his skills.

Overcoming Injuries

Yates's path to the majors wasn't smooth. He faced significant challenges, including multiple surgeries that could have ended his career before it began.

4. 04Yates underwent Tommy John surgery in both 2006 and 2007, a major setback for any pitcher.
5. 05Despite these surgeries, he persevered and made his professional debut in 2009 with the Tampa Bay Rays.

Climbing the Ranks

Yates's determination paid off as he quickly moved up through the minor leagues, showcasing his talent and earning recognition.

6. 06In 2012, Yates reached the Double-A level with the Montgomery Biscuits, posting a 2.65 ERA and 94 strikeouts in 68 innings.
7. 07His performance earned him a spot on the Triple-A All-Star team in 2013 with the Durham Bulls.

Major League Debut and Early Career

Yates's hard work culminated in his MLB debut, marking the beginning of a successful career in the big leagues.

8. 08Yates made his MLB debut on June 7, 2014, with the Tampa Bay Rays.
9. 09In his first season, he pitched in 37 games, posting an ERA of 3.75 and striking out 42 batters in 36 innings.

Playing for Multiple Teams

Yates's career has seen him don several jerseys, each stint adding to his experience and reputation.

10. 10Over the years, Yates has played for the New York Yankees, Los Angeles Angels, San Diego Padres, Atlanta Braves, and Texas Rangers.
11. 11His adaptability and skill have made him a valuable asset to every team he's joined.

All-Star Achievements

Yates's excellence on the mound has been recognized with prestigious All-Star selections.

12. 12Yates earned his first All-Star selection in 2019 while pitching for the San Diego Padres.
13. 13That year, he led the National League in saves with 41, a testament to his dominance as a closer.

Career Highlights

Yates's career is dotted with standout moments and impressive statistics that highlight his skill and consistency.

14. 14In 2019, Yates set a Padres standard for pitchers with at least 60 innings pitched, achieving an incredible 1.19 ERA.
15. 15He struck out 101 batters in 60+2⁄3 innings that season, solidifying his reputation as one of the best closers in the league.

Battling Injuries

Injuries have been a recurring theme in Yates's career, but his resilience has always shone through.

16. 16In 2020, Yates suffered an elbow injury that limited him to just six appearances.
17. 17Despite this setback, he returned to form in 2023 with the Atlanta Braves, posting a 3.28 ERA and a 7-2 record.

Free Agency and New Beginnings

Yates's career took another turn in 2023, leading to new opportunities and challenges.

18. 18In November 2023, Yates became a free agent after the Atlanta Braves declined their option on him.
19. 19He quickly signed a one-year, $4.5 million contract with the Texas Rangers in December 2023.

Contract Details and Earnings

Yates's contracts reflect his value and contributions to the teams he's played for.

20. 20In 2022, Yates earned $1 million with the Atlanta Braves.
21. 21In 2023, his earnings increased to $6 million, showcasing his continued worth in MLB.

Career Statistics

Yates's career stats provide a glimpse into his impact on the mound.

22. 22As of the latest data, Yates has pitched in 374 games across his MLB career.
23. 23He has a total of 1,049 innings pitched, with an ERA of 3.83 and 761 strikeouts.

Awards and Recognition

Yates's achievements have been acknowledged through various awards and accolades.

24. 24His selection as an All-Star in 2019 was a significant honor.
25. 25He was also named to the 2019 All-MLB Team for his outstanding performance.

Leadership and Impact

Yates's role extends beyond his performance; he's also a leader and mentor in the bullpen.

26. 26As a closer, Yates has taken on a leadership role within his teams.
27. 27His presence has been instrumental in stabilizing the bullpen and contributing to team success.

Community Involvement

Yates's commitment to his community is as strong as his dedication to baseball.

28. 28Yates is involved in various community activities, reflecting his values and dedication to giving back.
29. 29His journey serves as an inspiration to young players, demonstrating the importance of perseverance and hard work.

Legacy in MLB

Yates's legacy in MLB is defined by resilience, adaptability, and leadership.

30. 30His contributions to various teams have been significant, and his achievements will continue to inspire future generations of baseball players.

Kirby Yates: A Testament to Perseverance

Kirby Yates's career showcases grit, determination, and resilience. From his early days in Lihue, Hawaii, to becoming a standout MLB pitcher, Yates has faced and conquered numerous challenges. His journey through Tommy John surgery, multiple team changes, and significant injuries highlights his unwavering commitment to the sport. Yates's standout 2019 season with the San Diego Padres, where he led the National League in saves, remains a career highlight. His recent signing with the Texas Rangers in December 2023 marks another chapter in his storied career. Beyond his on-field achievements, Yates's leadership, community involvement, and ability to inspire young athletes further cement his legacy. Kirby Yates's story is a powerful reminder that with hard work and perseverance, one can overcome obstacles and achieve greatness in any field.