The Detroit Tigers have signed former Houston Astros right-hander José Urquidy to a one-year, $1 million contract, which includes a $4 million club option for 2026 with performance-based incentives. Currently recovering from Tommy John surgery, Urquidy has been placed on the 60-day injured list as he continues his rehab. While he could potentially return later this season, the contract structure indicates a stronger focus on the 2026 campaign. To make room for Urquidy, the Tigers moved right-hander Sawyer Gipson-Long to the 60-day IL as he recovers from hip and elbow surgeries.
Urquidy’s 2026 option includes performance bonuses tied to the number of starts he makes. He can earn additional payouts beginning at four starts, with the potential to reach up to $7 million if he completes a full season.
Known for his deceptive pitching style, Urquidy relies on a five-pitch mix, featuring a 93-mph four-seam fastball, a highly effective changeup, a sweeper, a curveball, and a sinker. Before his injury, his changeup and sweeper posted impressive whiff rates of 35% and 37%, respectively. He also brings valuable postseason experience, having contributed to three World Series victories with Houston. In 15 playoff appearances, including eight starts, he holds a 4-2 record with a 4.08 ERA.
From 2019 to 2023, Urquidy appeared in 79 games for the Astros, including 70 starts. He achieved a career-best 13-9 record with a 3.94 ERA in 2022. However, injuries limited him to just 10 starts in 2023, and he is set to miss the 2024 season due to his ongoing recovery.
As the Tigers prepare for the season, their rotation will feature Tarik Skubal, Jack Flaherty, and Reese Olson as key starters. Top prospect Jackson Jobe is a leading candidate for the No. 4 spot, while Casey Mize, Kenta Maeda, and Keider Montero are competing for the final rotation slot.
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