Top Free Agent Framber Valdez Remains Unsigned

Left-hander Framber Valdez, 32, remains the top unsigned free-agent pitcher as spring training nears. Over the past four seasons, he ranks second in MLB in innings and fifth in fWAR, with a 3.22 ERA and elite groundball rates. A former Astros rotation staple, he has 85.0 postseason innings. While his 2025 season saw a 5.20 ERA in the second half and no Cy Young votes, his agency is addressing character concerns. The Orioles are considered the favorites, with the Mets, Braves, and Giants also legitimate contenders for his projected nine-figure deal.