The Toronto Blue Jays have designated veteran right-handed pitcher José Ureña for assignment, marking another chapter in the journeyman’s eventful 2025 season. This roster move, announced on May 31, clears space for left-hander Easton Lucas, who was recalled from Triple-A Buffalo to bolster the pitching staff ahead of a bullpen game against the Oakland Athletics.
Ureña’s Brief Tenure with the Blue Jays
Ureña, 33, joined the Blue Jays on May 5 after electing free agency following a short stint with the New York Mets. During his time in Toronto, he appeared in six games, including two starts, and posted a 3.65 ERA over 12⅓ innings. While his ERA was respectable, underlying metrics raised concerns. Notably, his strikeout rate stood at a mere 9.6%, suggesting that his performance may not have been sustainable in the long term.
A Season of Transitions
Ureña’s 2025 season has been marked by frequent transitions. He began the year with the Mets, signing a minor league deal and making a single major league appearance on April 28, where he allowed five earned runs over three innings. Following that outing, the Mets designated him for assignment, leading to his free agency and subsequent signing with Toronto.
Blue Jays’ Pitching Dynamics
The Blue Jays’ pitching staff has faced challenges this season, particularly with the rotation. Veteran ace Max Scherzer has been sidelined since his debut due to a thumb injury, leading to a series of adjustments in the starting lineup. In response, Toronto has experimented with various pitchers, including Braydon Fisher and Eric Lauer, to fill the void. The recall of Easton Lucas is part of this ongoing effort to stabilize the pitching staff.
Future Prospects for Ureña
With his designation for assignment, Ureña’s immediate future remains uncertain. Should he clear waivers, he has the option to accept an outright assignment to Triple-A Buffalo or elect free agency. Given his extensive major league experience, it’s plausible that other teams in need of pitching depth may express interest.
Conclusion
José Ureña’s designation for assignment by the Blue Jays underscores the volatile nature of a journeyman pitcher’s career in Major League Baseball. As Toronto continues to navigate pitching challenges, roster adjustments like these are essential for maintaining competitiveness. For Ureña, the coming days will determine his next opportunity to contribute at the major league level.
