The Blue Jays have signed right-handed pitcher to a major league contract, according to Jon Heyman of the New York Post. This deal follows closely behind Toronto’s agreement with fellow right-hander Spencer Turnbull.
He, originally joined the Mets on a minor league deal in February. Although he didn’t make the Mets’ Opening Day roster, he started three games for Triple-A Syracuse and was called up in late April. His lone MLB outing for New York went poorly—he allowed five earned runs over three innings—and he was designated for assignment soon after.
Upon electing free agency, the Blue Jays acted swiftly to sign him, aiming to bolster a depleted pitching staff. Unlike Turnbull, who hasn’t pitched competitively since a rehab appearance last September, Ureña is expected to be immediately available for big league action.
Now in his 11th MLB season, Ureña has carved out a niche as a durable swingman. Since debuting in 2015, he is one of only two pitchers with both 150+ starts and 75+ relief outings. His career 4.80 ERA and 4.92 SIERA suggest he’s more of a dependable innings eater than a frontline arm—but that’s precisely what the Jays need right now.
Toronto began the 2025 season with a rotation of Kevin Gausman, José Berríos, Chris Bassitt, Max Scherzer, and Bowden Francis. With Yariel Rodríguez moving to the bullpen, the team’s depth was tested early when Scherzer landed on the IL after just one start due to a thumb injury.
Easton Lucas, Paxton Schultz, and Eric Lauer have all been used with mixed results, while top prospect Jake Bloss has struggled both in Triple-A and during a short MLB stint last season with Houston.
As such, GM Ross Atkins stated Friday that adding rotation depth was a priority—and by Saturday morning, he followed through by signing both Ureña and Turnbull. While Turnbull may offer more long-term upside, Ureña provides an immediate option who can start or relieve as needed.
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