Framber Valdez Expected to Depart Astros in Free Agency

Free-agent left-hander Framber Valdez is "widely expected to sign with a different team" after serving as an anchor for the Houston Astros' rotation for half a decade. The Astros are unlikely to retain Valdez or pursue other top-tier free agents, instead exploring options like Zac Gallen, Michael King, Lucas Giolito, Merrill Kelly, or Chris Bassitt. A reunion with Justin Verlander is also possible. Internal candidates include Cristian Javier, Nate Pearson, Ronel Blanco, and Hayden Wesneski, though some are returning from injury. Hunter Brown took a "sizable step forward" in 2025.