Valdez has posted a 6.02 ERA over his last eight starts, adding pressure to Houston as they navigate six crucial games and seek a return to form to anchor the rotation.

Valdez’s recent form (6.02 ERA in eight starts) and short outing in Atlanta highlight a need to rework pitch usage, notably his curveball, as the Astros chase crucial division games.

Valdez, the Astros left-hander, was slated to start the next game after the Altuve update. His performance remains a key anchor for Houston as they navigate the potential lineup disruption and keep the pitching staff on track in a tight division race.

Valdez stands out as an undervalued asset with a sinker-heavy, groundball-driven profile; four-win pace across four seasons underscores his reliability and durability for fantasy, despite not leading in strikeouts.

Valdez anchors Houston for Sunday, bringing a 12-9 record and 3.42 ERA as he looks to seal a series sweep in Atlanta and keep the Astros within reach of the AL West leaders on this long road trip.