The Houston Astros enter the offseason facing the possibility of losing their ace, Framber Valdez, who is set to hit free agency at season’s end and is expected to attract strong interest on the market.
Valdez is coming off a solid year, making 31 starts and posting a 13–11 record with a 3.66 ERA over 192 innings. He also threw two complete games, tying Tanner Bibee and Nick Lodolo for the most among all starting pitchers this season.
Re-signing Valdez will be a challenge for Houston, but the team has alternative routes to explore in free agency. They could also look to the trade market this winter to find a replacement, especially from clubs aiming to strengthen their farm systems.
Former White Sox pitcher linked to the Astros in free agency
One upcoming free agent to watch is Lucas Giolito. Although he missed the Wild Card Series with the Boston Red Sox, MLB insider Mark Feinsand believes he could be a strong fit for the Houston Astros.
“After sitting out the 2024 season due to Tommy John surgery, Giolito bounced back nicely in 2025, posting a 10-4 record with a 3.41 ERA over 26 starts — his best campaign since 2021,” Feinsand noted.
“He did, however, miss the Wild Card Series with right elbow discomfort, so teams will be cautious when reviewing his medicals. Still, after logging 145 innings this year, he’s expected to draw plenty of interest.”
The former Chicago White Sox ace impressed in his first full season back from surgery but his recent elbow issue could give teams pause.
Beyond Houston, Feinsand also mentioned the Los Angeles Angels and Arizona Diamondbacks as potential landing spots. Giolito has already pitched for the Angels, so if the Astros want to bring him aboard, they may need to act quickly and aggressively.
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