The Pittsburgh Pirates are making waves in the MLB free agency market! In a surprising move, they've officially signed José Urquidy, a right-handed pitcher, to bolster their 2026 roster.
The Pirates, based in Pittsburgh, are gearing up for an exciting season by adding Urquidy to their pitching lineup. This signing is a strategic move to enhance their depth on the mound, especially with Urquidy's versatility as a starter and long reliever. And at a reported $1.5 million for one year, it's a steal!
A Versatile Addition
Urquidy brings a wealth of experience as a starting pitcher, but the Pirates are keeping their options open. They've been on the hunt for left-handed starters, but General Manager Ben Cherington isn't limiting himself. This flexibility is evident with the Urquidy signing, as he can step into various roles.
The competition for the starting rotation is fierce, with right-handers Carmen Mlodzinski, Paul Skenes, Mitch Keller, Braxton Ashcraft, and Bubba Chandler already in the mix. Urquidy's ability to adapt as a long reliever, soaking up innings from the bullpen, makes him a valuable asset.
A Pitcher's Arsenal
Urquidy possesses an impressive array of pitches, keeping batters guessing. His four-seam fastball, while not lightning-fast, has been his go-to, typically thrown over 50% of the time. But he's not a one-trick pony; he mixes in a changeup, curveball, and sweeper, along with a sinker and cutter.
His curveball and changeup were particularly effective in 2023, with batters struggling to connect. And his sweeper, potentially evolving into a slider, has been better than the stats suggest, with a high whiff rate and Stuff+ rating.
Familiar Faces, New Places
What makes this signing even more intriguing is Urquidy's history with the Pirates' new pitching coach, Bill Murphy. They worked together during Urquidy's time with the Astros, where Murphy helped guide the team to success. With Murphy now in Pittsburgh, the reunion could be a game-changer.
Health Concerns and Potential
However, there's a catch. Urquidy's recent injury history raises some concerns. He's battled shoulder issues and underwent Tommy John surgery, limiting his playing time in the last two seasons. But if he can stay healthy, the Pirates have a real gem on their hands.
The Pirates seem confident in Urquidy's recovery, and his performance during rehab assignments is encouraging. With a solid track record and playoff experience, he could be a key contributor if he regains his form.
But here's where it gets controversial: Is this signing a calculated risk or a potential home run? The Pirates are betting on Urquidy's talent and his connection with Coach Murphy. Will it pay off? Only time will tell. Stay tuned for the 2026 season to see if Urquidy can make a lasting impact on the Pirates' quest for success.
What do you think about the Pirates' decision to sign José Urquidy? Is he the missing piece they need, or should they have focused on other areas? Share your thoughts and predictions in the comments below!
