Backup plans for Orioles, Braves and others who whiffed on Framber Valdez
The Detroit Tigers came out of nowhere to sign Framber Valdez to a three-year, $115 million contract, just as Tarik Skubal's arbitration hearing was underway. This unexpected move could set the stage for a potential trade involving Skubal, or it might indicate that the Tigers are fully committed to Skubal's final year. Either way, it leaves many teams in a position of seeking alternative pitching options, with limited time to spare.
Valdez, the last prominent star without a new contract in free agency, initially faced concerns about age and personality that might have limited his market. However, he ultimately secured the highest AAV ever for a left-handed pitcher. Here's a look at other teams linked to Valdez and their potential next steps.
Pittsburgh Pirates
Backup plan: Brayan Bello
The Pittsburgh Pirates were late to the Framber Valdez party but came up short. The Boston Red Sox, with a surplus of pitchers due to their acquisition of Johan Oviedo from the Pirates, could benefit from clearing a path for Connelly Early or Payton Tolle. The Pirates, on the other hand, could benefit from a more reliable fifth starter as Jared Jones recovers. Brayan Bello, six years younger and more affordable than Valdez, had his best season at the MLB level with a 3.35 ERA and 1.24 WHIP in 29 appearances and 28 starts. While there are some concerns with his expected ERA (4.48), Bello excels at generating ground-ball contact and increased cutter usage last season. Under club control until at least 2029 at less than $10 million annually, Bello is a solid investment for the Pirates.
Toronto Blue Jays
Backup plan: Kris Bubic
The Royals' determination to win next season makes Kris Bubic an attainable but not cheap option. With an expiring contract and limited innings pitched in a season, the Royals might not consider him untouchable. Bubic, an ex-starter turned reliever, found his rhythm in a rotation role in 2025 and became the Royals' most dependable ace with a 2.55 ERA and a career-high strikeout rate of 24.4 percent. While the Blue Jays don't necessarily need more pitching, their current rotation is all right-handed, and adding depth is always beneficial. With ample resources and a desire to compete at the highest level, trading for Bubic would be a bold move, especially if he performs well and the Jays aim for another deep playoff run.
Atlanta Braves
Backup plan: Chris Bassitt
The Braves' rotation appears strong on the surface, but the team is aware of the importance of depth due to recent injuries. Framber Valdez is a consistent workhorse, delivering stable results every fifth game. Chris Bassitt, while showing some game-to-game variance, is available on a cheap one-year deal and has demonstrated durability with 30-plus starts and 170 innings in four consecutive years. His reliance on a bendy slider, curves, and offspeed offerings suggests he will age more gracefully than others in his generation. Bassitt's command and ability to induce soft, ground-ball contact make him a valuable addition to the Braves' rotation, providing much-needed stability and availability.
San Francisco Giants
Backup plan: Sandy Alcántara
The San Francisco Giants are considering the risk-reward balance when it comes to Sandy Alcántara, who had a poor season with a 5.36 ERA in 31 starts. However, his ability to pitch 174.2 innings after elbow surgery is promising, and he is available on an affordable $17.3 million expiring contract with a $21 million club option for 2027. Less than four years removed from winning the NL Cy Young award, Alcántara offers significant upside if he regains his past form. The Giants would benefit from a solid No. 3 starter behind Logan Webb and Robbie Ray, and Alcántara's sinkerball style, while inconsistent, could provide a boost to the rotation.
San Diego Padres
Backup plan: Justin Verlander
The San Diego Padres' financial constraints limit their options, and Framber Valdez was never a realistic target. Justin Verlander, who spent last season in San Francisco, is a viable option. With a three-time Cy Young award winner and future Hall of Famer on the mound, the Padres can improve their back rotation. While the team aims to get younger, Verlander's one-year investment as a No. 5 starter could be beneficial. Despite some ups and downs last season, Verlander settled in with a 3.85 ERA, 29 starts, and 152 innings, addressing durability concerns from his previous season in Houston.
Baltimore Orioles
Backup plan: Zac Gallen
The Baltimore Orioles initially favored signing Valdez but were disappointed by his decision. With a focus on improving the roster, the O's signed Pete Alonso and acquired Taylor Ward, along with their new closer, Ryan Helsley. However, the starting rotation remains a concern. While Shane Baz's arrival is promising, the Orioles need to extend Trevor Rogers' success and bring Kyle Bradish back to form. With no surefire aces left in free agency, the Orioles should consider a blockbuster trade for Tarik Skubal. Zac Gallen, with his workhorse capabilities and Cy Young voting finish two years ago, is a strong candidate and within their reach. Despite a mixed season (4.83 ERA in 33 starts, 192 innings), Gallen's durability and potential for improvement make him a valuable addition to the Orioles' rotation.
