Valdez anchored the Astros’ rotation with a 13-11 record, 3.66 ERA, 192 innings in 2025, 187 strikeouts and 68 walks. His Sept. 25 gem vs Oakland—a seven-inning, one-run, 10-K performance—highlighted his upside when fully stretched, positioning him as a coveted free agent if Houston doesn’t re-sign him.

Becomes a free agent day after World Series is finished.

<p>Valdez is viewed as a core piece who could command a top-tier deal on the open market if he tests free agency. Houston has yet to commit large dollars to a single pitcher, which means Valdez’s return could become a pivotal decision for the rotation in 2026.</p><p>Any agreement to keep Valdez would influence the club's payroll strategy, rotation depth, and the likelihood of internal promotions or external acquisitions as the team seeks stability at the top of the rotation.</p>

Valdez’s September meltdown contributed to Houston’s fade; a strong 2024/early-2025 profile raises questions about consistency and peak pitcher usage in a retooled Astros staff.

Valdez is a cornerstone free-agent candidate with elite durability and a strong track record. His 13-11 mark and 3.66 ERA in 31 starts in 2024 keep him among the market’s premier left-handed starters, and Houston plans talks to determine whether he remains in the rotation.