José Urquidy claimed by Phillies off waivers from White Sox and likely to pitch Friday vs. Mets
NEW YORK — Pitcher José Urquidy was claimed by the Philadelphia off waivers from the Chicago White Sox and could appear Friday against the New York Mets.
Phillies manager Don Mattingly said he expected Urquidy would start Friday or follow an opener in a bulk role. Philadelphia needed another starter after All-Star Jesús Luzardo went on the injured list because of left shoulder inflammation.
“Obviously, missing Zus’ start, it puts you in a bullpen game in some fashion,” Mattingly said before Thursday’s series opener. “And bullpen game, like one at a time, is a little different than having a bulk guy in there that can throw 70, 75 pitches.”
A 31-year-old right-hander, Urquidy was designated for assignment Tuesday. He is 2-2 with a 5.28 ERA and one save this year in one start and 10 relief appearances for the White Sox and Pittsburgh.
He last pitched on Sept. 8, when he gave up two runs over four innings of relief while throwing 45 pitches against the Pirates.
Luzardo, who made his first All-Star team this season, ranks amongst the NL’s top 10 with 14 wins, a 2.87 ERA and 221 strikeouts.
Philadelphia transferred right-hander Caleb Killian to the 60-day IL.
