The Cubs made their big splash by signing Alex Bregman, but they’re not done yet.
Chicago’s got a real shot at landing Framber Valdez, the best starter still available in free agency. The left-hander’s posted a 3.36 ERA during his time with Houston, and there’s a compelling reason why he should seriously consider the Cubs.
It’s all about defense.
MLB.com’s Travis Sawchik makes the case that Chicago’s infield defense perfectly complements Valdez’s ground-ball heavy approach. When you’re generating that many grounders, you need guys behind you who can turn them into outs.
“Valdez is an extreme ground-ball pitcher. His 62% ground-ball mark since 2021 ranks fourth among qualified arms. He leads baseball in double plays generated since 2021.”
The numbers back up Chicago’s advantage. Valdez has been getting guys to beat the ball into the ground at an elite level, and the Cubs have exactly the kind of infield that maximizes that skill.
Here’s where it gets interesting. The Cubs now have Dansby Swanson, Nico Hoerner, Matt Shaw, and freshly signed Bregman all capable of playing premium infield defense. That’s a collection of gloves that other Valdez suitors simply can’t match.
The defensive metrics tell the story pretty clearly:
- Cubs infield: +11 Outs Above Average (12th in MLB)
- Cubs infield: +66 Defensive Runs Saved (2nd in MLB)
- Next best Valdez contender in OAA: Mets at -3
- Next best in DRS: Giants at +39
Now, the Cubs won’t field all four of those premium defenders at once since Michael Busch figures to handle first base duties. But that’s still three elite gloves turning potential hits into outs, which is exactly what Valdez needs to succeed.
What makes this fit even better is that Chicago’s got flexibility. Whether it’s Shaw at third and Bregman at second, or some other configuration, the Cubs can put together an infield that gives Valdez the best chance to turn his ground balls into double plays.
For a pitcher whose success depends on fielders making plays behind him, the Cubs offer something their competition simply can’t match. If Valdez wants to see those grounders turn into outs instead of seeing balls find holes, Chicago’s the obvious choice.
The Cubs have already shown they’re serious about upgrading this winter. Adding Valdez would give them both the starter they need and the perfect marriage of pitcher and defense.
