Phillies Claim Pitcher Jose Urquidy From White Sox to Fill Rotation Gap

Urquidy Joins the Phillies

The Philadelphia Phillies have claimed right handed pitcher Jose Urquidy off waivers from the Chicago White Sox. The 31 year old could make his first appearance for his new team as early as Friday against the New York Mets.

Philadelphia was forced to look for pitching help after All Star starter Jesus Luzardo went on the injured list. Luzardo is sidelined with left shoulder inflammation. To make room on the roster, the Phillies transferred right handed pitcher Caleb Kilian to the 60 day injured list.

A Bulk Option for the Rotation

Phillies manager Don Mattingly said he expects Urquidy to either start on Friday or follow an opener in a bulk pitching role. Having a bulk pitcher is a major help for a team trying to avoid overusing its bullpen.

"Obviously, missing Zus' start, it puts you in a bullpen game in some fashion," Mattingly said before Thursday's game. He added that a bullpen game is different than having a bulk pitcher who can throw 70 or 75 pitches.

Urquidy has a record of two wins and two losses this year with a 5.28 ERA and one save. He has made one start and ten relief appearances this season while playing for both the White Sox and Pittsburgh. His last game was on September 8, when he allowed two runs over four innings of relief against the Pirates, throwing 45 pitches. He was designated for assignment by Chicago on Tuesday.

Big Shoes to Fill

Replacing Luzardo will be a difficult task for the Phillies. The left handed pitcher made his first All Star team this season. He has been one of the top pitchers in the National League, ranking in the top ten with 14 wins, a 2.87 ERA, and 221 strikeouts.

What it means for the next game

Philadelphia Phillies at New York Mets (MLB, Fri, 18 Sep): New York Mets win 47%, Philadelphia Phillies win 53%; projected score New York Mets 4, Philadelphia Phillies 4. Our safest pick: Mets +2.5.

Detroit Tigers at Chicago White Sox (MLB, Fri, 18 Sep): Chicago White Sox win 54%, Detroit Tigers win 46%; projected score Chicago White Sox 5, Detroit Tigers 4. Our safest pick: Over 6.5 runs.