Padres chase Framber Valdez in free agency as they look to fortify a rotation that could lose Dylan Cease and Michael King. Valdez, dominant since 2020, would bring a steady blend of wins and innings, aligning with San Diego's history of bold roster moves. Front-office chatter notes a shadow of risk after a miscommunication-crossup with Cesar Salazar that could affect how executives view Valdez’s long-term fit. Other suitors include Boston, San Francisco, Texas, Baltimore and Detroit, signaling a crowded market and value-driven decision for fantasy managers.

If Valdez signs with the Padres, Cease and King could see their fantasy upside shift dramatically depending on how San Diego structures its payroll and rotation depth. Ownership’s willingness to spend remains a talking point in fantasy circles as they weigh Valdez’s durability and postseason pedigree against potential volatility in a high-stakes market.