Valdez Highlights: Orioles, Twins, Yankees Updates
Framber Valdez has signed a three-year contract worth $115 million (including deferrals) with the Detroit Tigers. This move pairs him with Tarik Skubal at the top of Detroit’s pitching rotation. Prior to his commitment to the Tigers, Valdez was a prominent target in the free-agent market, particularly for the Baltimore Orioles.
Baltimore Orioles’ Interest in Valdez and Other Pitchers
The Orioles have been closely linked to Valdez throughout the offseason. Adding a top-of-the-rotation pitcher like him would significantly benefit their lineup, which already includes talented arms Trevor Rogers and Kyle Bradish. Mike Elias, Baltimore’s president of baseball operations, has connections to Valdez from his previous role in the Houston Astros’ front office.
Reports suggest that Baltimore is still exploring options in the rotation market and has shown interest in Zac Gallen. Gallen, the most notable unsigned free agent, rejected a qualifying offer and signing him would require the Orioles to forfeit their third-round draft pick, the 82nd overall.
Potential Alternatives for the Orioles
If the Orioles choose not to pursue Gallen due to financial considerations, several other pitchers remain available:
- Chris Bassitt
- Lucas Giolito
- Justin Verlander
- Max Scherzer
None of these pitchers would carry the same draft compensation requirements as Gallen.
Other Teams in the Valdez Market
While the Orioles were a primary contender for Valdez, other teams have also entered the bidding. The Pittsburgh Pirates have reportedly shown interest, and the Minnesota Twins are also involved. The Twins previously attempted to acquire Freddy Peralta before he was traded to the Mets, but it’s unclear how serious they were about landing Valdez.
Despite these developments, the Twins face financial constraints and have recently parted ways with president of baseball operations Derek Falvey. Their ownership has limited spending, complicating their search for top pitching talent.
New York Yankees’ Considerations
Although there were initial talks regarding Valdez, the New York Yankees ultimately did not pursue him. They had reviewed Valdez’s medicals but shifted focus after signing Cody Bellinger to a five-year, $162 million deal. This significantly increased their competitive balance tax figure, making additional investments less feasible.
With their pitching, the Yankees recently acquired Ryan Weathers from the Miami Marlins. They plan to depend on their existing roster until Carlos Rodón and Gerrit Cole return from injuries.
The offseason has seen various shifts in pitching acquisitions, with teams like the Orioles actively looking to bolster their rotations while maintaining budgetary constraints.
