Overview

• Valdez finished 2025 at 13-11 with a 3.66 ERA over more than 190 innings, reinforcing a multi-year track record as a durable frontline starter.
• He went 2-7 with a 6.05 ERA over his final 10 starts, a downturn evaluators say clubs will probe as they assess risk.
• A Sept. 2 sequence labeled a cross-up, in which a fastball struck catcher César Salazar after a miscommunication, is viewed by some executives as a factor that could narrow interest.
• Most in the industry expect the Astros to extend a qualifying offer before he hits the market, positioning Houston for draft-pick compensation if he signs elsewhere.
• Multiple teams are cited as potential suitors, including the Blue Jays, Orioles, Mets, Rangers, Padres, Red Sox, Tigers and Giants, with one public projection pegging his next deal at six years and $199 million.