Mets 'Among Favorites' for Free Agent Workhorse LHP Framber Valdez

Free agent LHP Framber Valdez, 32, is reportedly "among the favorites" for the Mets, with the Orioles also strong suitors. Valdez has been a workhorse, posting a 3.21 ERA and 1.15 WHIP over 767.2 innings in the last four seasons, including 192.0 IP in 2025. Despite a 3.66 ERA in 2025, his peripherals were consistent, and his elite 97th percentile ground ball rate and 91st percentile sinker remain strong. Concerns include poorly graded curveball/slider in 2025 and a September incident where he hit his catcher.