Orioles Viewed as Potential Fit for Astros’ Lefty Ace
Could Framber Valdez be on the Orioles’ radar this offseason? After a 2025 season marred by injuries to their starting rotation, the Baltimore Orioles are expected to prioritize acquiring a starting pitcher this winter.
Several key starters missed extended time, contributing to the Orioles’ disappointing 75-87 record and their first last-place AL East finish since 2021. With the rotation still facing uncertainty, Valdez, a proven left-handed ace, might be a compelling solution.
In a recent FanSided article, MLB insider Robert Murray mentioned Valdez as a potential target for Baltimore.
“Valdez has a solid track record,” Murray noted. “Over eight seasons with the Astros, he’s posted a 3.36 ERA across more than 1,080 innings, striking out over 1,000 batters. In 2025, he recorded a 3.66 ERA and 187 strikeouts in 31 starts. While many teams will be interested, questions may linger about a past incident involving a miscommunication with his catcher.”
Valdez is set to hit free agency for the first time in his career after eight seasons in Houston. With the Astros missing the playoffs for the first time since 2016, it’s unclear whether they’ll bring him back. Regardless, Valdez is expected to draw significant interest on the open market.
The 31-year-old has established himself as one of MLB’s top left-handed starters. In 2025, he went 13-11 with two complete games, a 3.66 ERA, a 3.37 FIP, 1.24 WHIP, and 187 strikeouts over 192 innings.
A two-time All-Star and 2022 World Series champion, Valdez also threw a no-hitter against the Guardians on August 1, 2023. His consistency and durability make him an attractive option for teams in need of frontline pitching.
With Baltimore’s current rotation still recovering — including Grayson Rodriguez (elbow), Kyle Bradish (Tommy John), and Tyler Wells (UCL) — adding a veteran like Valdez would not only strengthen the staff but also provide much-needed stability. Bradish and Trevor Rogers could lead the rotation if healthy, but Valdez would offer insurance and elevate the group overall.
Across his 188 career appearances (166 starts), Valdez owns an 81-52 record with a 3.36 ERA, 1.20 WHIP, and 1,053 strikeouts in 1,080.2 innings pitched.
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