Former White Sox pitcher linked to the Astros in free agency

Jared Bloom

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Former White Sox pitcher linked to the Astros in free agency image

The Houston Astros will head into the offseason with the risk of losing their ace, Framber Valdez. He will be a free agent when the season comes to an end and could generate quite a market. 

Valdez is coming off a season where he started 31 games, compiling a 13-11 record with a 3.66 ERA across 192 innings. He also pitched two complete games, tying Tanner Bibee and Nick Lodolo for the most out of all starting pitchers this season.  

It will be tough for the Astros to re-sign him, but there are some other options they can turn to in free agency. They could also consider potentially replacing Valdez in a trade over the winter with teams looking to bolster their farm systems.

Former White Sox pitcher linked to the Astros in free agency

One player who will be an upcoming free agent is Lucas Giolito. While he missed the Wild Card Series with the Boston Red Sox, MLB's Mark Feinsand believes he could be a possible fit in Houston. 

"After missing all of 2024 following Tommy John surgery, Giolito had a solid return this past season, going 10-4 with a 3.41 ERA in 26 starts for the Red Sox – his best season since '21. Giolito missed the Wild Card Series with right elbow discomfort, so potential suitors will study his medicals very closely, but after throwing 145 innings since '25, he should have a market for his services."

Feinsand states the former Chicago White Sox pitcher is coming off a rather impressive season after sitting out in 2024 as he recovered from Tommy John. However, he missed the Wild Card with elbow discomfort, so that will be something to consider. 

Outside of Houston, Feinsand also sees Giolito being a fit for the Los Angeles Angels or the Arizona Diamondbacks. He has already had a stint with the Angels, so if Houston wants him in their rotation, they might have to get aggressive here.

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Contributing Writer