Almonte began the 2009 season in the Gulf Coast League, where he posted a 1.37 ERA and a 10:1 strikeout-to-walk ratio over five starts. Was quickly promoted to Kingsport where he continued to display his control, walking only one batter every 5.1 innings. Made his professional debut in the Dominican Summer League (R) in 2008. Went 0-3 with a 7.53 ERA in his first four appearances of the season but was 3-0 with two saves and a 1.54 ERA the rest of the way. Allowed less than one hit per inning and yielded only two home runs in 61.0 innings.