The 32-year-old Dominican Framber Valdez is a free agent in this winter’s market, however, it seems that the pitcher is very close to signing for a team on the east coast, as according to MLB analyst Steve Phillips, the player could join the Baltimore Orioles or the New York Mets for the 2026 season.
The Mets need stability in innings pitched after the 2025 collapse and for the Orioles, having Valdez in their ranks would be a sign of assurance for a team that needs serious reinforcements ahead of the season.
Phillips: Valdez between Baltimore Orioles and New York Mets
Valdez spent eight seasons with the Astros, starting out as a reliever before becoming one of the most reliable starting pitchers in Major League Baseball and according to MLB analyst Steve Phillips, he believes the Dominican will receive a juicy long-term contract with one of these two teams.
“Scott Boras represented Alex Bregman. He also represented Ranger Suarez and Framber Valdez is also represented by Scott Boras. If Suarez has five years, I think, being a couple of years older, Framber Valdez also has five years.”
Phillips’ comment comes after Ranger Suarez signed a five-year, $130 million contract with the Boston Red Sox
Valdez recorded 187 strikeouts in 192 innings in 2025, which reinforces his durability as a frontline starter for contending teams. His 1.24 WHIP supports consistent run prevention that is reportedly valued by the Mets and Orioles.
Is Framber Valdez’s temperament a factor in his recruitment?
A downside that would call into question the possible signing of the pitcher would be his temperament. During a game against the Yankees, the pitcher hit catcher Cesar Salazar in the chest after a confusion in pitch selection
The ball hit Salazar‘s chest protector, although both said it was unintentional and clarified afterwards. However, his conduct was called into question because it showed that he lacks serenity and the ability to handle pressure in certain scenarios.
“What happened to us was that we crossed paths. I asked for that pitch, I threw it and we crossed paths. We went down to the dugout, I apologized to him and I take full responsibility.”
After what happened and after fixing the misunderstanding, Salazar told the press:
“Framber and I have a very good relationship.”
Read the full article here
