BREAKING NEWS: Ex-Astros Pitcher José Urquidy Signs New Contract With Detroit Tigers for 2025 Season Amidst Health Concerns
Detroit, MI – March 11, 2025 – In a move that has surprised many in the baseball world, the Detroit Tigers have officially signed former Houston Astros pitcher José Urquidy to a one-year, $8 million deal for the 2025 season. The announcement comes amid lingering health concerns that sidelined Urquidy for much of the 2024 season, raising questions about his durability and long-term future in Major League Baseball.
A Risky but Calculated Move by the Tigers
The Tigers, coming off a disappointing 2024 campaign, have been aggressively searching for pitching depth to support their rotation. Despite uncertainties surrounding Urquidy’s recent struggles with injuries, Detroit’s front office remains optimistic about his potential.
“José is a proven competitor with postseason experience, and we believe he has a lot left in the tank,” said Tigers GM Scott Harris in a press conference. “We understand the risks, but we’re confident that our medical team and coaching staff can help him return to form.”
Urquidy, 29, spent six seasons with the Astros, where he played a crucial role in their 2022 World Series victory. However, persistent shoulder inflammation and elbow soreness limited him to just nine starts in 2024, with a concerning 5.21 ERA.
Urquidy’s Health: A Major Concern
While Urquidy has shown flashes of brilliance, including a career 3.98 ERA and a strong postseason track record, his injury history remains a red flag. Sources close to the pitcher revealed that he underwent stem-cell therapy during the offseason in an effort to avoid surgery.
“I feel great. I’ve been working with specialists and making adjustments to my mechanics,” said Urquidy in an interview. “I know there are doubts, but I’m ready to prove I can still perform at a high level.”
The Tigers’ medical staff has reportedly structured his contract with performance-based incentives, ensuring that the team is not fully committed financially if his health issues persist.
How Urquidy Fits Into the Tigers’ Rotation
Detroit’s rotation remains in flux after struggling in 2024. With Tarik Skubal as the team’s ace, Urquidy is expected to compete for a middle-rotation spot alongside Casey Mize, Matt Manning, and Reese Olson. If healthy, his experience could provide much-needed stability.
Baseball analysts have mixed reactions to the signing. Some see it as a low-risk, high-reward move for a rebuilding Tigers squad, while others believe it’s a desperate gamble.
“Detroit needs innings, and if Urquidy stays healthy, he can eat up 140+ innings,” said MLB Network analyst Jon Morosi. “But that’s a big ‘if.’”
With spring training just around the corner, all eyes will be on Urquidy’s velocity, command, and durability as he looks to prove he can still be an effective starter in the majors.
- For now, the Tigers and their fans can only hope that this gamble pays off.
