With Tatsuya Imai joining the Houston Astros, it will have an impact on other teams around Major League Baseball, including the Chicago Cubs.
Mark Feinsand of MLB.com recently reported that while the Cubs were interested in Imai, it doesn’t mean they’ll have interest in Framber Valdez, the Astros free agent. Despite needing another proven arm, Chicago doesn’t look to want to do so.
“A number of clubs were interested in Imai to varying degrees, but the Cubs seem to have been the most aggressive suitor after the Astros,” Feinsand wrote. “That doesn’t mean Chicago will now pivot to one of the other top free-agent starters, as Ranger Suárez and Framber Valdez figure to cost significantly more than Imai -- who will earn between $18 million and $21 million in each of the next three seasons depending on performance bonuses and can opt out after 2026 and 2027.”
Valdez is a proven frontline starter with postseason success, not many injuries, and a track record of being an ace on a very good team. From the Cubs' perspective, it’s tough to see why they wouldn’t want him.
He’d instantly change Chicago’s rotation and give them a legitimate chance to win it all in the NL.
Valdez will likely command a long-term deal well north of what the Cubs want to pay, which seems to be the issue.
For the Cubs, it’s the same thing over and over. The Cubs show interest, but ultimately decide the price is too high.
More Astros news:
- Astros slugger reportedly being viewed as a trade target for the Red Sox after earning his second All-Star nod last season
- Astros predicted to sign Rangers All-Star and World Series champion who was recently non-tendered
- Astros’ Ryan Pressly connected to reunion with team he made his debut with back in 2015
- Astros blockbuster trade pitch sends Brice Matthews and three more players to Nationals for 26-year-old All-Star
- Astros’ Framber Valdez market expected to heat up in coming days once Japanese ace signs
- Former Astros star Alex Bregman predicted to make logical Red Sox decision after Pete Alonso signing