Ex-Seattle Mariners Reliever Paul Sewald Becomes Free Agent
Former Seattle Mariners closer Paul Sewald became a free agent Thursday after the Detroit Tigers declined his 2026 option. Sewald was acquired from Cleveland at the trade deadline and had a 4.58 ERA in 22 relief appearances for Detroit.
Contract Details and Performance
Sewald received a $1 million buyout from a $7 million one-year deal, instead of the $10 million called for in his mutual option. The 35-year-old right-hander did not pitch between July 11 and September 19 due to a strained right shoulder.
Career Overview
Sewald appeared in 172 games for the Mariners from 2021 to 2023. During his tenure, he recorded an 18-8 record with a 2.88 ERA, 0.93 WHIP, and 52 saves, pitching 171⅔ innings. Before joining Detroit, he was traded to the Arizona Diamondbacks prior to the 2023 trade deadline.
Other Tigers Roster Moves
- The Tigers also declined options on pitchers José Urquidy and Randy Dobnak.
- Dobnak made his only major league appearance this year on March 30 for Minnesota and was acquired by Detroit in late July.
- Detroit declined a $4 million club option on Urquidy, who returned on September 14 from Tommy John surgery, making two big league appearances.
"Former Seattle Mariners closer Paul Sewald became a free agent Thursday after the Detroit Tigers declined his 2026 option."
Paul Sewald's departure marks a notable shift for the Tigers' bullpen as they adjust their roster following injury and performance challenges.