Framber Valdez is facing a potential trade as the Astros look to manage their payroll amid looming free agency for key players like Alex Bregman. His arbitration projections indicate a salary increase to $17.8 million in 2025, which, while reasonable for his caliber, could be reallocated to strengthen other roster areas. Valdez has been a reliable performer for Houston, posting an ERA between 2.82 and 3.45 over the past four years, making him an attractive option for teams like the Atlanta Braves, who may need to fill a void in their rotation.

Framber Valdez finished seventh in the 2024 AL Cy Young Award voting. His performance included a solid season, although specific statistics or highlights from his year were not detailed in the voting results section. Valdez's contributions to the Astros were acknowledged, but he did not rank among the top candidates for the award.

Framber Valdez is poised to return to the Astros' major-league rotation, adding depth to the team's pitching staff as they prepare for the upcoming season. His return is part of Houston's plans to reinforce their rotation, alongside other starters like Hunter Brown, Ronel Blanco, and Spencer Arrighetti.

Framber Valdez produced a 2.91 ERA over 176.1 innings pitched, striking out 169 batters and achieving a 15-7 record. This marked the third consecutive year he qualified for the ERA title, and he has consistently made 20 or more starts each season. Valdez's performance has often gone under the radar, despite being a two-time All-Star and finishing in the top 20 for American League Cy Young Award voting three times. He earned his first All-MLB Team nod in 2022 as a member of the First Team, showcasing his continued excellence on the mound.

Framber Valdez has emerged as a key figure in the Astros' pitching rotation, showcasing his ability to be the staff's ace and ranking among the American League's best starters. His development, along with the growth of younger pitchers like Hunter Brown and Ronel Blanco, is vital for the team's future success. Valdez's performance will play a significant role in the Astros' pursuit of continued competitiveness and deep postseason runs.