Urquidy Unleashed: White Sox Star Dominates in Shock Bulk Relief Role
Urquidy Shines in White Sox Debut: A Win Despite Rough Edges
What Happened in the Game?
The Chicago White Sox beat the Detroit Tigers 9–5 on Friday, and the biggest story was the debut of pitcher José Urquidy. He didn’t start the game—but he ended up being the pitcher who got the win.
Who Is José Urquidy?
- A right-handed pitcher who previously played for the Houston Astros
- Recently called up from Triple-A Charlotte (the White Sox’s top minor league team)
- Made his first appearance in a White Sox uniform on Friday
How the Game Unfolded: Step by Step
- Sean Newcomb started the game — but only pitched 1.1 innings (that’s one full inning plus one out).
- Newcomb acted as an "opener" — a strategy where a reliever starts the game to face the top of the lineup, then hands off to a bulk pitcher.
- Urquidy entered in the 2nd inning and pitched 3.2 innings (3 full innings + 2 outs).
- He threw 52 pitches, struck out 3 batters, allowed 5 hits, 3 earned runs, and 0 walks.
- The White Sox offense scored 9 runs, giving Urquidy plenty of run support.
- Because he was the pitcher of record when his team took the lead for good, Urquidy got the win — improving his record to 1–1.
Important Point: Even though Urquidy gave up 3 runs, the team’s strong offense bailed him out. In baseball, a pitcher can earn a win even with a shaky performance — if the team scores enough runs.
Why This Matters for the White Sox
- Noah Schultz, a top prospect, was sent down to the minors on August 8 to make room.
- Urquidy essentially took Schultz’s spot in the rotation.
- The team plans to use Urquidy again — possibly as a traditional starter or bulk reliever — in Wednesday’s series finale vs. the Cubs at Wrigley Field.
Summary
José Urquidy made a successful (if imperfect) debut for the White Sox, earning a win in a 9–5 victory over the Tigers. Though he allowed 3 runs in 3.2 innings, the offense gave him more than enough support. He’s expected to stay in the rotation and pitch again Wednesday against the Cubs at Wrigley Field — either as a starter or long reliever.
FAQ
Q: What does "bulk reliever" mean?
A: A bulk reliever is a pitcher who comes in early (usually after an opener) and throws multiple innings — kind of like a starter, but not starting the game.
Q: What is an "opener"?
A: An opener is a relief pitcher who starts the game but only pitches 1–2 innings. The idea is to face the top of the opponent’s lineup once, then hand off to a bulk pitcher.
Q: Why did Noah Schultz get sent down?
A: The White Sox likely wanted to give Schultz more development time in the minors, or they needed a roster spot for Urquidy.
Q: Can a pitcher get a win if they give up runs?
A: Yes! As long as their team takes the lead while they’re pitching (or after they leave with the lead) and never gives it up, they can get the win — even with a high ERA that day.
Q: What’s next for Urquidy?
A: He’s lined up to pitch Wednesday vs. the Cubs at Wrigley Field. The White Sox haven’t confirmed if he’ll start or come in behind an opener.