The Cubs are off to a solid 6-4 start, but they might be shopping for starting pitching help as the trade deadline approaches. One intriguing name that could hit the market? Astros lefty Framber Valdez.
Houston sits at 3-4 early in the season, and they’ve failed to lock up Valdez long-term. The Athletic’s Chandler Rome reports there were no extension talks between the two-time All-Star and the team before the season began. That’s a recipe for a potential deadline deal, as Valdez is headed for free agency this winter.
Newsweek’s Drew VonScio identified the Cubs as a potential landing spot for Valdez if Houston struggles through the first half.
“Contenders are always looking for additional starting pitching at the trade deadline, and this July could provide some strong options on the table — including Houston Astros ace Framber Valdez,” VonScio wrote. “Both the Cubs and the Braves could be suitors for Valdez in July if the Astros struggle in the early half of the season.”
The competition for Valdez would be fierce if he hits the trade block. That said, the Cubs have the farm system depth to make a compelling offer if they believe he’s the missing piece for a playoff push.
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Any trade would likely come with an eye toward re-signing Valdez this winter. Spotrac projects he’ll command a three-year, $70 million deal in free agency. The lefty would instantly transform Chicago’s rotation – imagine a playoff trio of Justin Steele, Sōta Imanaga and Valdez. That’s a formidable group that could match up with anyone in October.
Valdez brings a career 3.30 ERA to the table. Last season, he posted a 2.91 ERA with 169 strikeouts across 28 starts. He’s been one of baseball’s most consistent starters over the past five years, making him exactly the type of arm contenders crave at the deadline.
