Baltimore, January 28, 2026
The Baltimore Orioles are in pursuit of free-agent pitcher Framber Valdez to strengthen their pitching rotation. This potential signing could spark competition for the final starting spot, with current candidates including Valdez, Kyle Bradish, and Trevor Rogers. While Valdez’s impressive performance with the Houston Astros has made him a key target, financial considerations regarding his contract demands may influence the team’s budget and future roster decisions. As the Orioles aim to improve following a challenging season, the addition of Valdez or alternative options like Nick Martinez could impact their competitiveness in the upcoming season.
Orioles Eyeing Framber Valdez to Enhance Pitching Rotation
A potential deal could spark competition for the final starting spot
Baltimore, Maryland – The Baltimore Orioles are reportedly interested in signing free-agent pitcher Framber Valdez, which could lead to a competitive battle for the team’s final starting rotation spot.
The search for quality pitching is a priority for the Orioles, who are focused on improving their performance following a challenging season. With community support and strategic decision-making, the team aims to enhance its competitiveness in the upcoming year. The determination shown by local leaders and players alike mirrors the entrepreneurial spirit flourishing in Baltimore’s business landscape, reflecting how strategic investments can foster significant growth.
Framber Valdez’s Performance and Availability
Framber Valdez, a 32-year-old left-handed pitcher from the Dominican Republic, has been a consistent performer for the Houston Astros. In the 2025 season, he achieved a 13-11 record with a 3.66 ERA over 31 starts. Valdez has been recognized as an All-Star in both 2022 and 2023 and pitched a no-hitter on August 1, 2023. He is currently a free agent after declining a qualifying offer from the Astros.
Potential Impact on Orioles’ Rotation
Signing Valdez would introduce competition for the Orioles’ final starting rotation spot. The current candidates include Valdez, Kyle Bradish, and Trevor Rogers. The team’s new manager, Craig Albernaz, will need to decide how to structure the rotation, considering the strengths and performances of these pitchers.
Considerations and Alternatives
While Valdez is a strong candidate, his potential contract demands may be a concern for the Orioles. Reports suggest he is seeking a five-year deal worth at least $30 million per season. This financial commitment could impact the team’s budget and future roster decisions.
Alternatively, the Orioles are exploring other options to strengthen their pitching staff. One such option is Nick Martinez, a versatile pitcher who has experience both as a starter and reliever. Martinez’s adaptability and potentially lower cost could make him an attractive addition to the team.
Background Context
The Orioles have been actively seeking to improve their pitching rotation after a challenging 2025 season. The team finished with a 75-87 record, and addressing the pitching staff has been a priority in the offseason. The addition of a pitcher like Valdez or Martinez could provide the stability and performance needed to enhance the team’s competitiveness in the upcoming season.
Conclusion
The Orioles’ pursuit of Framber Valdez highlights their commitment to bolstering their pitching rotation. However, the decision will depend on balancing the potential benefits of Valdez’s experience and performance against the financial implications and the team’s overall strategic goals for the 2026 season.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Who is Framber Valdez?
Framber Valdez is a 32-year-old left-handed pitcher from the Dominican Republic, known for his consistent performance with the Houston Astros. In the 2025 season, he achieved a 13-11 record with a 3.66 ERA over 31 starts. Valdez has been recognized as an All-Star in both 2022 and 2023 and pitched a no-hitter on August 1, 2023. He is currently a free agent after declining a qualifying offer from the Astros.
What is the Orioles’ interest in Framber Valdez?
The Baltimore Orioles are reportedly interested in signing Framber Valdez to strengthen their pitching rotation. His addition would introduce competition for the team’s final starting rotation spot, with potential candidates including Valdez, Kyle Bradish, and Trevor Rogers. The team’s new manager, Craig Albernaz, will need to decide how to structure the rotation, considering the strengths and performances of these pitchers.
What are the financial considerations for the Orioles?
Reports suggest that Framber Valdez is seeking a five-year deal worth at least $30 million per season. This financial commitment could impact the Orioles’ budget and future roster decisions. The team is also exploring other options, such as Nick Martinez, a versatile pitcher who has experience both as a starter and reliever, potentially offering a more cost-effective solution.
What is the background context of the Orioles’ pitching staff?
The Orioles have been actively seeking to improve their pitching rotation after a challenging 2025 season, finishing with a 75-87 record. Addressing the pitching staff has been a priority in the offseason, with the addition of a pitcher like Valdez or Martinez seen as a means to provide stability and enhance the team’s competitiveness in the upcoming season.
Key Features of the Orioles’ Pursuit of Framber Valdez
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Player Profile | Framber Valdez, 32-year-old left-handed pitcher from the Dominican Republic, former Houston Astros player, 2025 stats: 13-11 record, 3.66 ERA over 31 starts, All-Star in 2022 and 2023, pitched a no-hitter on August 1, 2023. |
| Potential Impact | Signing Valdez would introduce competition for the Orioles’ final starting rotation spot, with candidates including Valdez, Kyle Bradish, and Trevor Rogers. Manager Craig Albernaz will need to decide on the rotation structure. |
| Financial Considerations | Valdez is reportedly seeking a five-year deal worth at least $30 million per season, which could impact the Orioles’ budget and future roster decisions. The team is also considering alternatives like Nick Martinez, a versatile pitcher with experience as both a starter and reliever. |
| Background Context | The Orioles are aiming to improve their pitching rotation after a 75-87 record in 2025. Strengthening the rotation is a priority in the offseason to enhance the team’s competitiveness in the upcoming season. |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Major League Baseball Offseason Transactions Reshape Teams
Detroit Tigers Pursue Jack Flaherty to Strengthen Pitching
Mark Ein Acquires Minority Stake in Baltimore Orioles
Orioles Secure Thrilling Walk-Off Victory Over Pirates
Author: STAFF HERE BALTIMORE WRITER
The BALTIMORE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREBaltimore.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Baltimore, Baltimore County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Baltimore Book Festival, Preakness Stakes, and Artscape. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Baltimore Chamber of Commerce and Visit Baltimore, plus leading businesses in shipping and healthcare that power the local economy such as the Port of Baltimore and Johns Hopkins Medicine. As part of the broader HERE network, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Maryland's dynamic landscape.
