Pitcher José Urquidy and the Pittsburgh Pirates have reached a $1.5 million, one-year contract agreement, a source confirmed to the Associated Press. The deal, contingent on a successful physical examination, adds a seasoned right-hander to the Pirates' pitching staff. Urquidy, 30, joins a rotation led by NL Cy Young Award winner Paul Skenes, providing the team with valuable roster flexibility as he can be optioned to the minor leagues. Urquidy's recent baseball journey includes a Tommy John surgery recovery, a $1 million, one-year contract with the Detroit Tigers, and a return to the major leagues in September 2025. He made two relief appearances in 2025, posting a 7.71 ERA over 2 1/3 innings. Urquidy's extensive experience includes 70 starts and 11 relief appearances for the Houston Astros from 2019 to 2023, where he accumulated a 27-16 record and a 4.00 ERA. In 2024, he faced a forearm strain, leading to his absence from the field. Despite this, Urquidy boasts a 4.08 ERA in 15 postseason appearances, including eight starts. This contract marks a significant step in Urquidy's career, offering him a chance to contribute to the Pirates' success while maintaining his health and performance.
