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Blue Jays Eyeing Astros Ace Framber Valdez in Free Agency
14 Nov
Summary
- Toronto Blue Jays in need of top starting pitcher this offseason
- Framber Valdez, a durable lefty, could be a perfect fit for the Jays
- Valdez's recent incident with a teammate may raise concerns for some teams
As the 2025 MLB offseason gets underway, the Toronto Blue Jays are in search of a top-tier starting pitcher to bolster their rotation. One player who could perfectly fit their needs is Framber Valdez, the former Houston Astros ace who is set to hit free agency.
Valdez, a left-hander, has emerged as one of the most durable and consistent starting pitchers in baseball over the past four years. He is one of only five starters to have thrown at least 600 innings with an ERA below 3.30 during that span, putting him in elite company alongside the likes of Max Fried, Zack Wheeler, and Corbin Burnes.
The Blue Jays have prioritized pitchers with strong durability in recent free agent signings, such as Kevin Gausman, José Berríos, and Chris Bassitt. Valdez's ability to consistently take the ball and perform at a high level would make him an attractive target for the Jays as they look to solidify their rotation.
However, Valdez's free agency may be complicated by a recent incident that occurred in early September, when his 93 mph fastball struck his Astros teammate César Salazar in the chest following a frustrating grand slam. While both Valdez and Salazar denied the pitch was intentional, the incident could give some teams pause as they consider signing the left-hander.
Despite this potential concern, the Blue Jays may be willing to look past the incident given Valdez's clear fit with the team and their strong clubhouse culture. The Jays have been praised for their close-knit group of players, and they believe their environment could help Valdez thrive if he were to join the team.
Signing Valdez would also address another need for the Blue Jays, as they currently lack left-handed starters in their rotation. With Eric Lauer expected to return to a swingman role in 2026, Valdez's addition would provide much-needed balance to the Jays' pitching staff.
As the offseason progresses, the Blue Jays will surely be keeping a close eye on Valdez's free agent market. With his combination of durability, left-handedness, and proven track record of success, he could be one of the most coveted pitchers on the open market this winter.
