Braves, Giants could make sense for Framber Valdez in free agency
As the MLB offseason continues, Framber Valdez remains unsigned. Valdez has been linked to a number of teams in MLB free agencybut the former Houston Astros star has yet to agree to a contract. Broadcaster CJ Nitkovski recently proposed the San Francisco Giants and Atlanta Braves as potential suitors, according to MLB Network Radio on SiriusXM.
“San Francisco would be a great fit,” Nitkowski said. “Who knows… I won’t say no Braves just more. There’s a lot of talk about the Braves bringing in Martin Maldonado as a front office assistant, and the connection there, the Braves fans make that connection.”
Maldonado retired after the 2025 season and has since joined the Braves as a special assistant for MLB operations. The former big league catcher spent parts of six seasons in Houston with the Astros, hence the “connection” Nitkowski mentioned. Valdez has spent his entire career in Houston, so he is familiar with Maldonado.
The The Giants have agreed to a one-year contract with starter Tyler Maal on Wednesday, but they could still use another pitcher in their rotation. It will be interesting to see if San Francisco emerges as a legitimate contender for Valdez.
Besides the Braves and Giants, there are plenty of teams that could make sense as a free agency landing destination for Framber Valdez. There aren’t many clubs around the league that wouldn’t benefit from adding an ace-caliber starting pitcher like Valdez.
However, the Braves and Giants will be worth watching in the sweepstakes in Valdez.
2025-12-31 21:57:00
