Struggling Mets Pitcher Jose Ureña Faces Crucial Opt-Out Decision Amid Inflated Spring ERA
The New York Mets took a low-risk gamble when they signed veteran pitcher José Ureña to a minor league contract earlier this spring. With his ability to serve as both a starter and a reliever, Ureña was seen as a depth option—a potential insurance policy for a pitching staff that could use reinforcements. However, through three appearances in Spring Training, the right-hander has struggled, posting an inflated ERA that now puts his future with the club in question.
As MLB Trade Rumors highlighted, Ureña is one of several veteran players with an upcoming opt-out clause in his contract. With teams finalizing their rosters ahead of Opening Day, Ureña must now decide whether to stay and fight for a spot with the Mets or test the market in search of a better opportunity elsewhere.
A Rocky Spring Performance
Ureña’s struggles have been evident in his limited spring outings. Control issues and hard-hit balls have inflated his ERA, making it difficult for the Mets to justify adding him to their Opening Day roster. While Spring Training stats don’t always paint the full picture, his inability to command the strike zone and limit damage has raised concerns about his role moving forward.
For a pitcher like Ureña, whose career has been defined by inconsistency, this stretch has been less than ideal. Over the past few seasons, he has bounced between starting and relief roles, experiencing mixed results with teams like the Detroit Tigers, Colorado Rockies, and Milwaukee Brewers. The Mets hoped a fresh start could revitalize his effectiveness, but so far, it hasn’t gone as planned.
What Are Ureña’s Options?
With his opt-out date approaching, Ureña has a few potential paths:
Remain with the Mets – If he believes he can turn things around, Ureña could choose to stay in the organization, possibly starting the season in Triple-A Syracuse while waiting for an opportunity to open up at the big-league level. Injuries and underperformance in the rotation or bullpen could create a spot for him down the line.
Exercise His Opt-Out – If another MLB team is willing to offer him a clearer path to the majors, Ureña could opt out of his deal and test the market. With several clubs still evaluating pitching depth, it’s possible that he could land a roster spot elsewhere.
Seek an International Opportunity – While less likely, Ureña could also explore options in leagues like Japan’s NPB or Korea’s KBO, where many veteran pitchers have successfully revived their careers.
The Mets’ Perspective
From the Mets’ standpoint, depth is never a bad thing—especially in a long, grueling 162-game season. However, Ureña’s performance thus far makes it difficult to justify a roster spot over younger or more consistent arms. The team already has several options for both rotation depth and long relief, including Tylor Megill, Joey Lucchesi, and David Peterson (once healthy).
If Ureña opts out, the Mets likely won’t stand in his way, as they have other pitchers who can provide similar swingman capabilities. However, if he stays, the team will hope he can refine his mechanics and provide value as a depth piece later in the season.
What’s Next?
As the Mets approach the final days of Spring Training, Ureña will have to make a decision about his future. While his ERA may not be doing him any favors, the demand for veteran pitching could still work in his favor. Whether he stays in New York or seeks a fresh start elsewhere, the next few days will be critical in determining where he’ll be when the regular season begins.
For now, Mets fans will watch closely to see whether Ureña remains in the organization—or if this spring was just a brief stop in his baseball journey. Stay tuned.
