Blue Jays Interested in Free Agent Framber Valdez

Another contender in the American League East is in pursuit of one of the top remaining free agent pitchers. The Blue Jays have shown interest in left-hander Framber Valdez, joining a list of several other teams.

Reports indicate that Valdez, now 32, is taking his time deciding on his next move. He has been the subject of speculation for a while, with the latest buzz surfacing recently.

Previously, the Orioles also hinted at a desire to sign the former Astros pitcher, while the Yankees had him on their radar before they traded left-hander Ryan Weathers to the Marlins.

The Blue Jays, who narrowly missed the World Series last season, have been quite proactive this offseason. So far, they have added right-handed starter Dylan Schiess on a seven-year deal worth $210 million, as well as Korean Baseball Organization MVP Cody Ponce for three years at $30 million, and submarine reliever Tyler Rodgers for three years at $37 million.

Valdez has been a staple for the Houston Astros for eight seasons, averaging over 191 innings per year in the last four. A two-time All-Star and 2022 World Series champ, he has garnered Cy Young votes across four seasons. Last year, he pitched 192 innings with a 3.66 ERA and a WHIP of 1.245. However, his year wasn’t without controversy; during a game against the Yankees, he faced accusations of intentionally throwing at catcher Cesar Salazar, which his representative dismissed as absurd.

Martin Maldonado, another one of Valdez’s former catchers, recently praised him, saying that any team would be fortunate to have him. “He’s a hard worker and ready to compete,” Maldonado noted. He emphasized Valdez’s dedication, pointing out how much effort he has put into becoming a reliable pitcher.

It’s worth mentioning that Valdez declined a qualifying offer from Houston, which means the team that eventually signs him will face a penalty—in this case, losing a draft pick in 2026.