The Houston Astros and Starting Pitcher Framber Valdez agreed to terms on a one-year $18 million contract. The two sides were able to come together to avoid arbitration. This one-year deal keeps Valdez in the “Space City” for another season. He is set to be a free agent following the 2025 season.
Valdez had a great regular season in 2024 with a 15-7 record and a 2.91 ERA. He was top 10 in the league in wins and ERA last season. Valdez’s strong performance helped him come in seventh in AL Cy Young Award voting. It also led to his third straight top-10 Cy Young finish. Will Valdez and Houston be able to have a successful year in 2025?
Houston Astros Offseason Summary
Left-hander Framber Valdez and the Houston Astros are in agreement on a one-year, $18 million contract to avoid arbitration, a source tells ESPN. Valdez is in his final year of arbitration and is set to be one of the premier free agents after the 2025 season.
— Jeff Passan (@JeffPassan) January 10, 2025
The Houston Astros made the MLB Playoffs for the eighth straight season in 2024. It was a short stay as they were swept 2-0 by the Detroit Tigers in the American League Wild Card. Houston responded to a disappointing postseason by trading Outfielder Kyle Tucker to the Chicago Cubs.
Houston also signed First Baseman Christian Walker to a three-year $60 million contract in December 2023. Valdez was not the only player the Houston Astros came to terms with on Thursday evening. Houston signed Shortstop Jeremy Pena, Starting Pitcher Luis Garcia, and Left Fielder Mauricio Dubón among others to one-year deals for the 2025 season.
Final Thoughts
Houston’s moves signal their intention to give it one more chance in 2025. They have been one of the most consistent teams in the league for the last decade, and the window on their World Series chances may be closing.
A pressing matter for the Astros is to decide how to replace Third Baseman Alex Bregman. He is a free agent this offseason and the team is not planning on bringing him back. Houston will look to get back on track in 2025 as they look to improve their roster and win the American League West again.
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