Framber Valdez Signs Three-Year Deal With Detroit Tigers

This blog post breaks down the Detroit Tigers’ blockbuster signing of left-handed ace Framber Valdez. We’ll dig into the financial side of the deal, what it means for the team’s rotation, and how it could shape the Tigers’ next few seasons.

The Big Splash: Valdez Joins the Tigers’ Rotation

The Detroit Tigers just made a serious statement, inking a three-year, $115 million contract with two-time All-Star lefty Framber Valdez. Adding a proven veteran to the pitching staff sends a clear message—they’re ready to compete.

The deal includes a big $20 million signing bonus and an opt-out after the second season, pending a physical. Valdez is reuniting with manager A.J. Hinch, who helped him find success in Houston.

That familiar environment should help Valdez settle in and thrive. It’s hard not to see the logic here.

Financial Nuances and Market Dynamics

The average annual value (AAV) of $38.33 million grabs attention, but the contract’s true financial picture is a bit murky. Unspecified deferrals mean the net present value isn’t totally clear yet.

Valdez turned 32 in November, and his late-season dip in 2023 probably influenced the contract’s length and how the market responded. These factors seem to have stopped longer-term offers that some expected earlier in the offseason.

The Tigers’ commitment to Valdez isn’t just about money. Because he turned down a qualifying offer from Houston, Detroit will lose some valuable draft picks:

• Their third-highest pick (probably Competitive Balance Round B, around 69th overall)
• Their third-round pick (unless they trade the CB pick)

They’re clearly willing to sacrifice future assets for immediate impact. That’s a bold “win-now” move.

Valdez’s Profile: Proven Durability and Groundball Prowess

Valdez brings a strong track record of durability and effectiveness. Since becoming a full-time starter, he’s put up two All-Star selections and three top-10 Cy Young finishes.

His 3.23 ERA over 973 innings from 2020–25 really speaks for itself. Valdez isn’t your typical strikeout machine; he relies on a heavy groundball approach, with a wild 62% career grounder rate fueled by his mid-90s sinker.

That sets him apart from flamethrowers—he’s got more in common with pitchers like Max Fried. It’s a style that can frustrate hitters and keep defenses busy.

Addressing the Second-Half Slump

One concern: Valdez’s rough finish last season. After a hot start, he posted a 6.05 ERA and a lower 17.7% strikeout rate over his last 10 starts.

Most blamed execution issues, not pitch tipping. That feels fixable, especially with Hinch back in his corner. Maybe a fresh start and focused coaching will get him back on track.

Impact on the Tigers’ Roster and Future

Valdez instantly becomes a co-ace, likely forming a tough 1-2 punch with Tarik Skubal. The rotation now looks a lot deeper, with young arms like Reese Olson, Jack Flaherty, and Casey Mize (if he can stay healthy) in the mix.

This is GM Scott Harris’s most aggressive move since signing Javier Báez. It’s a signal that the Tigers are investing in top-tier talent again, and honestly, it’s about time.

Payroll Implications and Win-Now Outlook

The Valdez signing will push the Tigers’ payroll way up. RosterResource estimates their luxury tax payroll around $237 million using the headline AAV.

That’s a big jump from last year’s $188 million CBT total. Of course, this number could shift depending on the deferral structure and whatever happens with Skubal’s pending arbitration.

It’s pretty obvious the Tigers are making a “win-now” push. They want to compete at the highest level and finally give their loyal fans an impact starter.

 
Here is the source article for this story: Tigers, Framber Valdez Agree To Three-Year Deal