Top Free-Agent Starter Framber Valdez Draws Phillies Interest as Orioles Labeled Front-Runner

Overview

• Valdez remains unsigned and is widely ranked as the best starting pitcher left on the market, according to Jim Bowden.
• Industry expectations point to the Orioles as his most likely destination, with a deal potentially shorter than he initially sought.
• The Phillies are linked as a suitor following Ranger Suárez’s departure, with San Francisco, Detroit, and Atlanta also mentioned as fits.
• Spotrac projects Valdez’s market value at about $199.9 million over six years, framing a significant cost for interested clubs.
• Bowden reports Valdez’s camp has stayed unusually quiet, and some teams are waiting for the asking price to drop as spring training nears.