Ahead of the 2025 season, the Detroit Tigers signed Jose Urquidy to a one-year, $1 million contract with a club option for the 2026 season. They made this deal knowing he would not be available to pitch until late into the season while he recovers from his second Tommy John surgery.
He is currently undergoing a minor league rehab assignment, pitching three scoreless innings earlier in the week. He is working his way to make his season debut and potentially stick around for the 2026 season.
However, MLB insider Jeff Passan does not believe that will happen. In a recent article giving a preview of what is to be expected in the upcoming free agency, Passan believes that Detroit will not pick up Urquidy's option.
What could be the reasons for the Tigers picking up Jose Urquidy's option?
Detroit's decision to pick up Jose Urquidy's option or not largely relies on how he looks if he can return. He has been relied on by the Houston Astros over the years and can be a great frontline starter when healthy.
Urquidy also has a ton of postseason experience, something that many players on the Tigers' roster do not have. And with them expecting to be in the mix for years to come, having those players with that kind of experience could prove to be huge.
Urquidy is expected to pitch in bulk relief for the Triple-A Toledo Mud Hens on Saturday. If he does not experience any setbacks, he could soon find himself on the mound for the Tigers.