Mets Sign RHP Jose Urena Amid Rotation Injuries, Nick Madrigal Likely Out for 2025
Mets Bolster Pitching Depth with Jose Urena
With injuries plaguing their starting rotation, the New York Mets have made a move to strengthen their pitching staff, signing veteran right-hander Jose Urena to a minor-league deal. If he makes the major league roster, Urena will earn $2 million for the season.
Urena, 33, pitched for the Texas Rangers last season, posting a 3.80 ERA in a mix of relief and starting appearances. While he has primarily been used out of the bullpen recently, he has starting experience from his time with the Marlins, Tigers, Rockies, and Brewers. Given the Mets’ current injury concerns, he could be called upon for spot starts or long relief work.
The Mets are dealing with setbacks to key starters. Sean Manaea is expected to be out until mid-April with an oblique strain, while Frankie Montas is unlikely to return until late May due to a lat strain. With the rotation short-handed, Urena’s versatility could be valuable as the Mets look to stabilize their pitching depth early in the season.
Last year, Urena made 33 appearances, recording a 5-8 record. Over the past two seasons, he has bounced between the White Sox, Brewers, and Rockies, making a combined 31 appearances.
Nick Madrigal’s Injury Ends His Season
Meanwhile, the Mets received a major blow on the offensive side. Infielder Nick Madrigal, acquired in January, is expected to miss the entire 2025 season after suffering a left shoulder fracture in a split-squad game on Sunday. Mets manager Carlos Mendoza confirmed that Madrigal will undergo season-ending surgery, forcing the team to rethink their infield depth.
Madrigal, 27, was recently moved to the 60-day injured list, but hopes of a return later in the season have now been dashed. He had been competing for a utility role in the infield after being non-tendered by the Chicago Cubs due to a decline in production. In 2024, he hit just .221 in 51 games.
Mets Adjust Plans Following Madrigal’s Injury
With Madrigal out, the Mets will give an extended look to 22-year-old speedster Luisangel Acuña during spring training, increasing his chances of making the Opening Day roster. Acuña, one of the team’s top young talents, could see more opportunities in a utility role.
To further compensate for the loss of Madrigal, the Mets also completed a trade with the Cubs, acquiring infielder Alexander Canario for cash considerations. Canario, known for his versatility, could provide additional infield depth and serve as an option at second or third base.
The Mets now face an uphill battle as they adjust their roster heading into the 2025 season, balancing injuries with last-minute additions to maintain their competitiveness.
