SHOCKER! Framber Valdez Officially Rejects the Astros Qualifying OFFER!

SHOCKER! Framber Valdez Officially Rejects the Astros Qualifying OFFER!

Brett and Eric discuss Framber Valdez’s decision not to accept the Astros’ qualifying offer. What does this mean? Ramon Urias is no longer a member of the Houston Astros. Can he still be traded? Why was he DFAed today? Who was added to the 40-man roster instead of Urias?
Houston Astros face major uncertainty as Framber Valdez rejects the $22 million qualifying offer, leaving a gaping hole in the starting rotation. Is Houston’s era of pitching dominance at risk? Eric Huysman and Brett Chancey debate how Dana Brown and the front office might steady the ship, breaking down the merits of Hunter Brown, Cristian Javier’s rebound potential, and possible trade targets like Dylan Cease, Michael King, and Ranger Suarez.

Key topics include the challenges of replacing Valdez’s durability, the ramifications of recent roster moves such as the DFA of Ramon Urias and the addition of Miguel Ullola to the 40-man, and the strategy behind protecting prospects in the Rule 5 draft. The hosts analyze the futures of utility players Mauricio Dubón and the implications of a Brendan Donovan trade. With the non-tender deadline looming, will Houston’s next flurry of moves set a new course for the 2026 season?

Locked On Astros is your daily Houston Astros podcast, hosted by Eric Huysman and Brett Chancey. As part of the Locked On Podcast Network, we bring you the latest Astros news, in-depth game analysis, player updates, and exclusive insights — every single weekday.
Whether you’re a die-hard fan or a casual listener, stay connected with everything happening in Astros baseball. Tune in on YouTube, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts, never to miss an episode.

00:00 Astros Ace’s Journey and Replacement

03:29 Valdez’s Performance and $22M Debate

06:49 Pitcher’s Meltdown: Breaking Unwritten Rules

11:47 Justin Verlander’s Role Explained

12:50 Astros DFA Ramon Urias

17:04 Dubon’s Secure Spot with Astros

22:18 “Potential of Pitchers Under Pressure”

23:16 Astros’ Rule 5 Draft Risks

30:14 Astros Offseason Updates & Insights

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