Every offseason, a few notable free agents linger on the market as clubs wait out the asking price. This winter, that dynamic gives the Texas Rangers an opportunity: with one rotation spot still open, they’re positioned to target a bargain short-term “prove-it” deal from the pitchers still searching for a home.
Among that list is southpaw and first-time free agent Framber Valdez, who has spent all eight of his MLB seasons with the Houston Astros.
The calendar shifting to 2026 and less than a month until pitchers and catcher report to spring training on February 10, time is running out for Valdez to have a full spring and get prepped for the year.