Ahead of the 2025 season, the Detroit Tigers decided to take a flier on Jose Urquidy. The two sides agreed to a one-year, $1 million deal with a $4 million club option for the 2026 season.
They knew he would miss a large portion of the season as he was recovering from Tommy John surgery. He did not make his season debut until mid-September and came out of the bullpen.
Urquidy did not pitch in the postseason since he was DFA'd on September 18 and accepted an outright assignment to the minors. Now, his future in Detroit could be over.
Jose Urquidy heads to free agency as the Tigers decline his $4 million option
On Thursday, it was reported that the Tigers decided to move on from Jose Urquidy. According to MLB Trade Rumors, the club declined his $4 million player option, and he will be headed to the open market.
"The Tigers weren't so impressed with his form that they wanted to commit $4 million at the beginning of the offseason. They could try to circle back later in the winter, but they'll keep options open for the time being."
Urquidy will now look to catch on with another team. When healthy, he could be a great middle-of-the-road starting pitcher who has the ability to be a nightmare for left-handed hitters. He just needs to work on limiting home runs.
However, two Tommy John surgeries could worry plenty of front offices. It will be interesting to see which team decides to take the risk.
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