The Pittsburgh Pirates have agreed to a one-year free-agent contract with right-handed pitcher José Urquidy, according to a source cited by MLB.com’s Mark Feinsand. The deal is reportedly worth $1.5 million and includes performance-based incentives, though the team has not yet officially confirmed the signing.
This acquisition addresses the Pirates’ clear need for an experienced arm in their starting rotation. Despite losing out on top left-hander Framber Valdez, who signed with the Detroit Tigers, Pittsburgh secured Urquidy, a pitcher with postseason experience and a World Series championship pedigree. He was part of the Houston Astros’ rotation during their 2022 World Series-winning season.
Urquidy’s Career and Recent Performance
José Urquidy, 30, has faced injury challenges most recently, undergoing Tommy John surgery in 2024. Last season, he made two relief appearances for the Tigers as he continued his recovery. His most productive years came from 2019 through 2022 with Houston, where he recorded a 3.74 ERA over 60 starts and amassed 281 strikeouts.
Urquidy’s postseason track record includes 15 appearances with eight starts and a 4.08 ERA. His experience pitching in high-leverage playoff situations brings valuable veteran depth to a Pirates pitching staff led by National League Cy Young Award winner Paul Skenes. Pittsburgh’s rotation also features promising young pitchers such as Bubba Chandler and Jared Jones.
Role within the Pirates’ Rotation
The Pirates have been active in improving their roster during the offseason, particularly their lineup and bullpen. However, Urquidy marks their primary addition to the starting rotation this offseason. He is expected to serve as a back-end starter but offers flexibility with his 11 career relief outings, providing Pittsburgh with options in managing their pitching staff.
The team traded starter Johan Oviedo to the Boston Red Sox earlier in the offseason, leaving a vacancy that Urquidy could fill once fully healthy. His championship experience and durability will be important as the Pirates look to bolster their pitching depth for the upcoming season.
Offseason Moves Complementing Urquidy’s Signing
The Pirates have complemented their pitching-oriented moves by enhancing their offensive and bullpen units. Notable additions include signing first baseman Ryan O’Hearn and acquiring infielder Brandon Lowe via trade. In the bullpen, Pittsburgh secured relievers Gregory Soto and Mason Montgomery, rounding out a reshaped pitching staff.
Together, these roster changes indicate the Pirates’ commitment to building a balanced team capable of contending. The signing of José Urquidy represents a strategic investment in an experienced pitcher who can stabilize the rotation and contribute to a competitive pitching corps.
Read more at: www.mlb.com
