Among the many starting pitchers who'll hit the free agent market next offseason, Houston Astros ace Framber Valdez's case is the most intriguing. Not long ago, he crossed up his own catcher, which drew plenty of attention in the league. That very act might mean the end of a possible future in Houston beyond this season.
With that in mind, the next best team to sign him is the Toronto Blue Jays. Sports Illustrated's Jackson Roberts believes that since several Blue Jays' starters, like Shane Bieber, Chris Bassitt and Max Scherzer, will be walking out in free agency, this will create an immediate need in the rotation. Valdez has been the most consistent Astros pitcher since becoming a full-time starting pitcher in 2020, making him a prime candidate for the position.
Valdez is having another strong season this year. He has posted a 3.59 ERA while striking out 173. He has gone 12-10 and holds a WHIP of 1.22.
Why the Blue Jays make sense for Valdez?
In the wake of multiple departures from the starting lineup beyond the 2025 season, signing Framber Valdez to secure at least one good arm makes a lot of sense. With the kind of investment they have made in the likes of Vladimir Guerrero Jr. and Anthony Santander, they need an ace with postseason experience. Valdez has got plenty of that during his time with the Astros.
The payroll is not expected to be an issue for the Blue Jays, who lately have been highly active during the postseason.
While Valdez might seek a high AAV long-term deal, anything beyond five years looks unrealistic since he is on the wrong side of 30. The 31-year-old, who is earning $18 million this year, is ranked among the top six starting pitchers in the majors, thereby Spotrac believes he may command a deal with $33.4 million annual salary.
If not for his cross-up incident with catcher Cesar Salazar, there would have been more teams looking for him. It remains to be seen how his market shapes up, as he will be leading the Astros this fall in the postseason.