MLB insider Jeff Passan names Framber Valdez top trade target for contenders
Image Source: Getty
MLB insider Jeff Passan identified Houston Astros ace Framber Valdez as a trade target at the top of his list as the 2025 deadline looms over other franchises. A two-time All-Star and a very important part of the Astros' starting rotation, Valdez is in the final year of his contract ($18 million this season).
As free agency approaches and the budget tightens on Houston, the organization faces a crossroads: hold onto their rotation leader for a playoff push or flip him to help recoup value ahead of what could be his eventual departure. Houston is currently in playoff position at 32-27, but a drop-off in play could push the Astros towards the selling side of the ledger.
Houston Astros' stance on Framber Valdez trade
Though the Astros have not put Valdez up for trade, that option is undoubtedly on the table. As Astros General Manager Dana Brown said, '
There are people that have called and are judging, not aggressively trying to move him, but we'll listen. I just view him as a cornerstone, and you try and preserve a rotation
'.
That frankness mirrors the realization that with a number of cornerstone players on the brink of free agency, the Astros are in a tight financial spot.
Framber Valdez would be a notable departure from a franchise that has found itself in the ALCS in seven straight seasons, two of which have resulted in a World Series title since 2017. But it may also, add, need to ensure its sustainability over the long term. The Astros' farm system has been depleted in recent years, so a Valdez deal could help restock it.
However, any such move will probably be contingent on where the team sits in the standings as the deadline approaches.
Framber Valdez's performance and trade market appeal
Valdez remained at the top of his game. He has a 3.12 ERA in 78 innings throughout 12 starts in 2025, and recently threw a complete game on 83 pitches. Consistent with the ground-ball inducing, he scores almost 4.0 bWAR a season and has racked up 2.1 bWAR already this year. Which would make him one of the most appealing arms made available on the trade market.
When ESPN's Jeff Passan examined potential names of note on the trade deadline list, he similarly wrote of the value of Valdez, saying that in the case of the Astors' falling out of contention, "
Valdez immediately becomes the best pitcher—and maybe the best player, period—available at this deadline
."
Also Read:
Official: Houston Astros announces RHP Ronel Blanco will undergo right elbow surgery next week
With the season winding down yet, spiral-out contenders needing some rotation help are almost bound to put a circle around Valdez on their wish lists. That is not just about wins, as what Houston decides here will be contingent upon how they envision long-term, being competitive in the post-dynasty landscape.
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