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By Zach Pressnell
Contributing Sports Writer
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The Houston Astros are set to lose Framber Valdez in free agency this winter, and it could be crippling to their franchise. They've lost quite a bit of talent over the last few years, and Valdez could be another domino to fall.
He's projected to sign a huge contract in free agency, but it's difficult to predict which teams will be interested in his services at such a large cost.
FanSided's Zachary Rotman recently predicted the Baltimore Orioles would be the team to win the Valdez sweepstakes in free agency this winter.
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"The Baltimore Orioles were willing to trade for Corbin Burnes in the 2023 offseason, but watched him sign with the Arizona Diamondbacks in the 2024 offseason. They didn't replace Burnes and their rotation was the biggest reason why 2025 went so poorly. Given their need for starting pitching, this is the year they'll finally splurge on a frontline arm. Framber Valdez makes a lot of sense for them.
"Valdez might have some teammate concerns to take note of, but there isn't a free agent starter with a better track record. The ground ball specialist can keep the ball in the ballpark at a hitter-friendly Camden Yards and help lead an Orioles rotation in dire need of an ace back to the postseason."
The Orioles were competitive last season, but they fell off a cliff this season. Their pitching staff struggled to put together competitive starts, and it quickly became clear that they didn't have the talent to compete for a World Series this year.
Adding Valdez on a huge deal would be a risk for the Orioles, but it's the move they need to make if they're serious about contending. The American League East is loaded with talent, and the Orioles will need to add some more talent to keep up.
More MLB: Poll of Experts Expect Astros Ace To Betray Houston For Blue Jays
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