The Houston Astros have been quite active this offseason following their surprise sweep by the Detroit Tigers in the American League Wild Card stage.
After making the playoffs for the previous eight seasons, the Astros dealt away three-time All-Star Kyle Tucker a season before free agency. In a stunning transaction, Houston traded Tucker to the Chicago Cubs for All-Star Isaac Paredes and two highly touted prospects: 2024 first-round selection Cam Smith and pitcher Hayden Wesley.
Tucker is expected to command a free-agent contract worth $300 to $400 million following the 2025 season.
Also, with homegrown talent Alex Bregman set to hit free agency, the Astros attempted to make a trade for St. Louis Cardinals third baseman Nolan Arenado. However, the future Hall of Famer cancelled the agreement by invoking his no-trade clause.
Another name was mentioned as a potential trade target at the MLB winter meetings last week, but it appears the Astros have put an end to it.
MLB insider admits Houston Astros won’t trade twice. All-Star
According to ESPN MLB expert Jeff Passan, the Astros will not trade ace Framber Valdez.
“A near-lock not to be moved: left-hander Framber Valdez, with Houston having told opposing executives it plans to keep him,” according to Passan.
Valdez’s name came up during the winter meetings, but with Tucker on the move, the Astros appear to be set to keep the two-time All-Star. Valdez has been one of baseball’s best pitchers over the last three seasons, with three top-nine Cy Young awards and two top-20 MVP finishes.
According to MLB Trade Rumours, Valdez may earn over $18 million in 2025, his final year of arbitration. There have been no extension talks between the Astros and Valdez, and it appears that the No. 1 pitcher will test free agency.
If Valdez throws the entire season for the Astros and declines a qualifying offer, Houston will regain a draft selection if he goes elsewhere.
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