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2h ago

Astros Fall Two Back in AL West as Framber Valdez’s Slide Deepens

His five-run outing left Houston 1-9 in his last 10 starts, heightening scrutiny heading into October.

Sep 20, 2025; Houston, Texas, USA; Houston Astros starting pitcher Framber Valdez (59) delivers a. pitch during the first inning against the Seattle Mariners at Daikin Park. Mandatory Credit: Troy Taormina-Imagn Images
Sep 1, 2025; Houston, Texas, USA; Houston Astros catcher Victor Caratini (17) prior to the game against the Los Angeles Angels at Daikin Park. Mandatory Credit: Erik Williams-Imagn Images

Overview

  • After consecutive home losses to the Mariners, Houston trails by two games and has dropped out of the final AL wild card spot, with Jason Alexander set for Sunday night to avoid a sweep.
  • Valdez failed to complete five innings on Saturday and allowed five runs in the defeat to Seattle.
  • Across his last 10 starts he is 1-7 with a 6.16 ERA and 1.51 WHIP, and the Astros are 1-9 in those games as his ERA climbed from 2.90 on Aug. 1 to 3.75.
  • Manager Joe Espada sought a left-handed bat by starting Victor Caratini at first base and confirmed Brendan Rodgers will not return this season.
  • Houston still lacks a firm timeline for closer Josh Hader’s return, and Valdez’s pending free agency places added weight on how he performs in October.