The idea of the Houston Astros selling at the trade deadline might sound to some like a suggestion that pigs will soar across the night skies someday.
For the last eight years, the Astros were the American League’s dominant power, making seven straight ALCS runs and winning two World Series titles. And to be clear, they could still do that in 2025, as their 32-27 record has them in playoff position at the moment.
Trading Kyle Tucker before the season was a sign that times are changing, though. If the Astros are going to keep the dynasty alive, they’ll have to do so without breaking the bank to keep all their stars. And starting pitcher Framber Valdez might be the next to go.
Valdez, a two-time All-Star and 2022 World Series hero, is on a one-year, $18 million contract. And though an in-season trade would likely only happen if the Astros fell back in the playoff race, it’s not off the table completely.
On Tuesday, ESPN’s Jeff Passan named Valdez as the most likely Astros player to be moved at the deadline, while listing Houston in the “holders” category of his trade deadline preview.
“The Astros’ roster features two free agents-to-be: Valdez and utility man Brendan Rodgers. Should the Astros dip out of contention, Valdez immediately becomes the best pitcher — and maybe the best player, period — available at this deadline,” Passan wrote.
“Valdez, 31, has strikeout, walk and home run rates all almost precisely the same as in years past, which should come as no surprise. He is perhaps the most consistent pitcher in baseball.”
After throwing an 83-pitch complete game in his last start, Valdez’s ERA sits at 3.12 through 78 innings. The ground ball specialist averages nearly four bWAR per season for his career, and has already accrued 2.1 through 12 starts this year.
It would be pretty shocking to see Valdez on the move, but the Astros’ inability to afford him in free agency might have their trigger finger itching if an unexpected losing streak occurs.
