DETROIT — The Detroit Tigers made significant roster moves on Friday as pitchers Paul Sewald, Jose Urquidy, and Randy Dobnak all became free agents after the team opted to decline their contractual options for 2026.
Paul Sewald, who was acquired from Cleveland at the trade deadline, has been granted a $1 million buyout from his one-year, $7 million contract instead of the mutual option of $10 million. This past season, the 35-year-old right-hander posted a 4.58 ERA over 22 relief appearances, although he faced challenges during the season, including a shoulder strain that kept him off the mound from July 11 to September 19.
Jose Urquidy, a 30-year-old right-hander, saw his $4 million club option declined by the Tigers. Urquidy made his return to the majors on September 14 after recovering from Tommy John surgery and appeared in only two big league games this year. He had a potential to earn an additional $3 million in performance bonuses based on games started if he had remained on the roster.
Randy Dobnak, 30, previously signed a five-year contract worth $9.25 million in 2021, which included a $6 million team option for 2026 and a $1 million buyout. Over his five major league seasons, Dobnak recorded a 9-12 record with a 4.86 ERA across 21 starts and 18 relief appearances. His only major league appearance this year came on March 30 with the Minnesota Twins, prior to him being traded to the Tigers in late July.
Additionally, the Tigers have bolstered their pitching staff by claiming right-hander Jack Little off waivers from the Pittsburgh Pirates. These moves signal a shift in the Tigers’ strategy as they work to reshape their roster for future seasons.