Things can never be counted out in Major League Baseball, but it seems about 99.9% certain that Framber Valdez will be on a different team than the Houston Astros next season.
It remains uncertain if the Astros would have gone in that direction had Valdez not intentionally crossed up his catcher late in the season, but that happened, and it’s tough to ignore.
Despite that reality, and with some suggesting teams aren’t thrilled with what Valdez did in that situation, he’s still one of the better left-handers in baseball and probably the best option available right now.
When looking at what that might mean, Mark Feinsand of MLB.com had the latest on Valdez’s contract situation and how things could unfold. He stated that Valdez is likely looking for at least a five-year deal.
“Yet in the weeks since, the top free-agent starters remain unsigned.
“Michael King appears to be the most likely to sign next, with suitors including the Yankees, Red Sox, Orioles, Cubs and Mets. The belief is that King will sign a deal for four years, while the other top starters – namely Framber Valdez, Tatsuya Imai and Ranger Suárez – are looking for at least five years,” he wrote.
A five-year contract for a starter of Valdez’s caliber is more than fair.
Years don’t necessarily mean a ton on their own, as AAV and total contract value are what most focus on.
However, from the sound of things, teams will have to make a five-year commitment to land the Astros ace.
More Astros news:
- Astros 'in the mix' for top-tier free agent Framber Valdez replacements
- Kyle Tucker predicted to break baseball, sign with Dodgers to chase World Series ring
- Astros' Jake Meyers receives trade rumor update from MLB insiders
- Astros sign 2.87 ERA KBO starter to bolster injured rotation
- Astros predicted to buy low on $13.5 million All-Star, Cy Young candidate to replace Framber Valdez
- Astros could fix defensive issues with trade of struggling 20-homer catcher