As the Houston Astros play their final game of the season Sunday, questions loom over the future of ace Framber Valdez as he heads into free agency this offseason.
Houston appeared poised for another postseason run, holding a playoff spot for most of the year. But injuries decimated the roster, and the Astros were eliminated from contention for the first time since 2016. During their streak from 2017 to 2024, the Astros captured two World Series titles, including one in 2022 with Valdez anchoring the rotation.
The left-hander has been one of the most reliable arms in the majors throughout his career. Valdez holds an 81-52 record with a 3.36 ERA and has pitched at least 175 innings in each of the past four seasons, surpassing 200 in one. He has also recorded at least 169 strikeouts in each of those years, including one season with 200.
Speaking to reporters this weekend, Valdez said he hopes to remain in Houston but acknowledged the uncertainty that comes with free agency.
“I would love to stay in an Astros uniform,” Valdez said. “It was a team that gave me a chance to be a professional player, gave me a chance to be in the World Series. We just have to see what the future holds for me.”
At 31, Valdez is expected to be among the most coveted left-handed starters available this winter. Whether Houston is willing to make the financial commitment required to retain him remains to be seen. For now, both Valdez and the Astros wait to see if their eight-year partnership continues into 2025.