Toronto Blue Jays Look to Fill Void with $160M Deal for Astros Ace Framber Valdez
The Toronto Blue Jays' historic run to the World Series may not have yielded a championship, but it has left the team with some pressing questions heading into free agency. Bo Bichette's impending decision will be at the forefront of their offseason, but with top pitching talent also available, the Blue Jays are likely to prioritize adding a frontline starter.
According to Ryan Finkelstein, an MLB insider, the Blue Jays are predicted to sign Houston Astros ace Framber Valdez to a five-year, $160 million deal. Valdez has been one of the most dominant pitchers in the game, boasting a stretch of 13 consecutive wins started by him, including several high-stakes postseason appearances.
Valdez's versatility and ability to pitch effectively both regular season and October have made him an invaluable asset for his current team. With Chris Bassitt, Max Scherzer, and Shane Bieber all set to hit the market, and Kevin Gausman nearing the final year of a $110 million deal, the Blue Jays would benefit from adding another top-tier starter.
If Bichette is signed to a massive contract, which could potentially be in excess of what Valdez is getting offered, the Blue Jays might need to prioritize affordability. However, if they miss out on the Bichette sweepstakes, Valdez could become their prized offseason target.
Securing Valdez would undoubtedly give the Blue Jays a significant boost, potentially closing the gap with powerhouses like the Dodgers heading into next season's competition.
The Toronto Blue Jays' historic run to the World Series may not have yielded a championship, but it has left the team with some pressing questions heading into free agency. Bo Bichette's impending decision will be at the forefront of their offseason, but with top pitching talent also available, the Blue Jays are likely to prioritize adding a frontline starter.
According to Ryan Finkelstein, an MLB insider, the Blue Jays are predicted to sign Houston Astros ace Framber Valdez to a five-year, $160 million deal. Valdez has been one of the most dominant pitchers in the game, boasting a stretch of 13 consecutive wins started by him, including several high-stakes postseason appearances.
Valdez's versatility and ability to pitch effectively both regular season and October have made him an invaluable asset for his current team. With Chris Bassitt, Max Scherzer, and Shane Bieber all set to hit the market, and Kevin Gausman nearing the final year of a $110 million deal, the Blue Jays would benefit from adding another top-tier starter.
If Bichette is signed to a massive contract, which could potentially be in excess of what Valdez is getting offered, the Blue Jays might need to prioritize affordability. However, if they miss out on the Bichette sweepstakes, Valdez could become their prized offseason target.
Securing Valdez would undoubtedly give the Blue Jays a significant boost, potentially closing the gap with powerhouses like the Dodgers heading into next season's competition.
I mean, they had an amazing run in the World Series and all but didn't quite bring home that championship 
The thing is, now they've got some big shoes to fill with guys like Bichette and Valdez coming up for contracts 
$160 million for Valdez? That's a whole lotta cash 
But honestly, if he can deliver on the mound like he has before, it'll be worth every penny 
I think what really gets me is how they're comparing apples to oranges when it comes to free agency right now. They need that top-tier starter and Valdez seems like their best bet 
valdez to toronto would be a MASSIVE win for the blue jays! think about it, they get this absolute ace who's proven himself in both reg season and postseason - that's got to give them a serious leg up on the competition. plus, they'd be filling out their rotation with all these top-tier guys 
would be amazing to see bichette join valdez & co. though, can we talk about how much i hate free agency - it's like everyone just throws around millions and hopes for the best 
.
I'm so hyped about this deal! The Blue Jays need to get that top-tier starter ASAP 
! He's been on fire 
with those 13 consecutive wins started by him, and I know he'll bring that same energy to Toronto 
. Bichette is definitely a priority, but if they can afford it, signing both would be insane 
.
but if they can get valdez it'll be lit 
they need that ace in the hole for playoff runs and with bichette already getting a big deal they gotta make some room in the budget 
. And if Bichette does end up taking the money, Valdez would be a great value for the price. The question is, how will it affect the team's overall chemistry and roster dynamics? Would they have to cut back on other positions to accommodate the contract? That's what I'm curious about 
plus think about how good bichette will look with valdez pitching behind him 
they gotta make it happen tho, valdez would take them to the next level for def
. I mean, Bo Bichette is an amazing player, but $160M is crazy talk 
. If they're gonna shell out that kinda cash, it might be wiser to sign Valdez and have a solid top 3 in their rotation - that's what'll set them up for success in the future 
. Plus, Valdez has shown he can handle the pressure of playoff games 
️. I think this deal would be a no-brainer if they miss out on Bichette... but you never know how free agency is gonna play out 
.
️
On one hand, if Bichette's deal is massive, it might be tough for them to afford Valdez too. 
. Like, $160 million for just one year is wild 
. He's proven himself to be an elite starter in big games, and his stuff is still on point 
. But I think securing Valdez would definitely give them a boost 
. They'd be talking playoffs for sure!
