It's always been questionable as to whether or not the Houston Astros would have the funds (or the desire to spend the necessary funds) to keep Framber Valdez in Houston for the long haul. The 31-year-old lefty is primed for a big payday, and as the best starter to hit the free agent market, he'll have no shortage of suitors.
While there may have been a sliver of hope, his childish "cross-up" of catcher Cesar Salazar after surrendering a grand slam more or less confirmed that a divorce is inevitable. Now, after a leak uncovered by the NY Post, the Astros' offseason plan for Valdez is abundantly clear, and it involves slapping the mercurial southpaw with the $22 million qualifying offer.