Overview
- Valdez is still on the market and widely described as the top starting pitcher left in free agency, according to recent reports.
- SportsGrid projected a five-year, $160 million deal with the Mets, while a New York Post prediction cited by Heavy put a five-year offer around $140 million.
- Jon Heyman reported that Valdez met with the Mets, Orioles and Giants as clubs assess options at the top of the rotation.
- Broadcaster CJ Nitkowski suggested the Giants and Braves as logical fits, noting Martin Maldonado’s new advisory role in Atlanta after years alongside Valdez in Houston.
- San Francisco just added Tyler Mahle on a one-year contract but could still pursue another starter, and some observers doubt Houston will match offers above roughly $150 million.