Kirby Yates Bio
Kirby Kali Yates is an American professional baseball pitcher who is currently a free agent. Born on March 25, 1987, in Lihue, Hawaii, he has played in Major League Baseball (MLB) for several teams, including the Tampa Bay Rays, Los Angeles Angels, New York Yankees, San Diego Padres, Atlanta Braves, Texas Rangers, and Los Angeles Dodgers. Yates made his MLB debut in 2014 and has been recognized for his impressive performance, becoming a two-time All-Star and leading the National League in saves in 2019. He showcases exceptional skills on the mound and continues to pursue his career in professional baseball.
Early Life and Background
Kirby Yates was born and raised in Lihue, Hawaii. He attended Kauai High School, where he began to develop his skills as a pitcher. His talent was evident from an early age, and he was drafted by the Boston Red Sox in the 26th round of the 2005 Major League Baseball draft. However, Yates chose to attend Yavapai College instead, where he continued to hone his craft. Unfortunately, his early career was marred by injuries, as he missed both the 2006 and 2007 seasons due to Tommy John surgery.
Path to Baseball
After recovering from his injuries, Yates signed with the Tampa Bay Rays as an amateur free agent on June 22, 2009. He began his professional career with the Princeton Rays of the Appalachian League. Over the next few years, he worked his way up through the minor leagues, showcasing his talent with impressive performances. In 2013, he was selected as the Rays’ Minor League Relief Pitcher of the Year, which helped him secure a spot on the team’s 40-man roster. Yates made his MLB debut on June 7, 2014, pitching 1+1⁄3 scoreless innings against the Seattle Mariners.
Kirby Yates Career
Early Career (2014-2016)
Yates’ early career in the MLB began with the Tampa Bay Rays, where he made 21 appearances in 2014, posting an ERA of 3.75. However, he struggled in the following season, leading to his designation for assignment after the 2015 season. In November 2015, he was traded to the Cleveland Indians and subsequently to the New York Yankees, where he pitched in relief during the 2016 season. Yates had a mixed performance with the Yankees, posting an ERA of 5.23 in 41 games.
Breakthrough (2017-2019)
Yates’ career took a significant turn when he was claimed off waivers by the San Diego Padres in April 2017. He excelled in this role, striking out 87 batters in 55+2⁄3 innings and achieving a 3.72 ERA in 61 games. In 2018, he became the Padres’ closer, finishing the season with a career-low 2.14 ERA and 12 saves. His breakout year came in 2019 when he was selected as an All-Star and led the National League in saves with 41 while recording a remarkable 1.19 ERA.
Notable Works and Milestones
Kirby Yates has been recognized for his outstanding performances, earning two All-Star selections in 2019 and 2024, and being named to the All-MLB First Team in 2019. His ability to close games and secure saves has made him a valuable asset to his teams.
Kirby Yates Award Nominations
Throughout his career, Kirby Yates has received multiple award nominations, including two All-Star selections and recognition as the National League saves leader in 2019.
Kirby Yates Awards Won
Kirby Yates has won several prestigious awards during his career, including being named to the All-MLB First Team in 2019 and earning two All-Star selections in 2019 and 2024.
Kirby Yates Family
Kirby Yates is married to Ashlee, who owns a business that provides sitters for professional athlete families. The couple tied the knot on January 2, 2016.
Personal Life
In addition to his baseball career, Kirby Yates enjoys hobbies such as surfing and golfing. His brother, Tyler Yates, also played in Major League Baseball and is now a police officer in Kauai.