Detroit Tigers fans are some of the most passionate supporters in all of Major League Baseball. Few fan bases show as much loyalty to their players as the Tigers faithful do, which is why many of them are interested in keeping up with the franchise's former players even long after they've left the Motor City.
While some former Tigers have found ways to thrive throughout the 2025 MLB campaign, others are struggling to keep a job. That includes an ex-Detroit pitcher who'll be seeking another fresh start this season following the latest update surrounding his career.
Former Tigers RHP Jose Urena Elects Free Agency After Being DFA'd by Dodgers
On Friday night, CBS Sports reported that former Tigers right-handed pitcher Jose Urena "cleared waivers Friday and elected free agency." The development happened just three days after the 33-year-old hurler was designated for assignment by the Los Angeles Dodgers on Tuesday.
After playing games with the Dodgers, New York Mets, and Toronto Blue Jays this season, Urena will be forced to look for his fourth club of the campaign. The 6-foot-2 righty has been underwhelming everywhere he's gone so far in 2025, pitching to a 5.40 ERA and 1.527 WHIP in 18 1/3 innings across nine games (2 starts).
Tigers fans likely haven't forgotten how frustrating Urena could be on the mound. Spending the 2021 season in Detroit, Urena went 4-8 with a 5.81 ERA while only averaging 6.0 strikeouts per nine innings in 26 outings (18 starts).
The 2025 campaign has essentially been a microcosm of Urena's MLB career. The Dominican pitcher has now played for seven teams in the last since leaving the Tigers nearly four years ago, highlighting his inability to find a permanent home. Only time will tell if his next signing will be different.
MLB clubs are always looking for pitching help, especially as they get deeper into the year and injuries begin to pop up more frequently. In other words, Urena will likely be given another opportunity before the year is over; however, he might have to prove himself on a minor-league contract after fumbling in the Majors this year.
Needless to say, Tigers fans can expect to hear more about their former starting pitcher's future sooner rather than later.