Overview

• In his first outing since the episode, Valdez allowed three runs on five hits over seven innings with five strikeouts in a 4-2 loss to Texas and said his priority was maintaining focus.
• Catcher César Salazar had motioned for Valdez to step off before a Trent Grisham grand slam, and two pitches later a fastball hit Salazar in the chest in a play described as a cross-up.
• Valdez and Salazar publicly denied any intent, and agent Ulises Cabrera called suggestions that Valdez tried to injure a teammate preposterous.
• USA Today's Bob Nightengale reported a scout said their organization has already removed Valdez from its free-agent list and wrote the incident could cost him millions.
• Despite the controversy, coverage notes widespread interest remains likely given Valdez’s performance, including a 3.40 ERA with a 166/57 K/BB ratio this season and an 80-49 record with a 3.32 ERA for his career.