The Chicago Cubs haven’t done much of anything this winter, and as expected, the fan base is getting frustrated. But perhaps the Cubs are simply lurking and waiting for the right opportunity to pounce?
ESPN’s David Schoenfield is still expecting the Cubs to make a major splash and is predicting them to sign pitcher Framber Valdez on a six-year, $168 million contract.
“The Cubs need a top-of-the-rotation starter, a guy they feel more confident handing the ball to in a playoff game than they did with Matthew Boyd or Shota Imanaga,” Schoenfield wrote. “They also have the payroll flexibility to do it, sitting about $22 million below last season’s total.”
Valdez is the top remaining pitcher on the market following Dylan Cease’s decision to join the Toronto Blue Jays on a seven-year, $210 million deal, and some would argue that the left-hander was the best arm available even before Cease signed.
But is Valdez really the right choice for Chicago?
Framber Valdez would be a major risk for the Chicago Cubs
Sep 14, 2025; Cumberland, Georgia, USA; Houston Astros starting pitcher Framber Valdez (59) pitches against the Atlanta Braves during the first inning at Truist Park. Mandatory Credit: Dale Zanine-Imagn Images
Look, I get it: the Cubs haven’t spent money in quite some time, so when a two-time All-Star pitcher is available, fans want them to jump at the opportunity. But would it really be wise for Chicago to hand Valdez $28 million annually?
There is no doubt that Valdez is a good pitcher, but he also showed some signs of decline with the Houston Astros in 2025. He posted a 3.66 ERA, his worst mark since becoming a full-time starter back in 2021. His 1.245 WHIP was also his highest in four years.
And while Valdez has averaged 191.8 innings over the last four seasons, it’s worth noting that he missed some time due to an elbow issue in 2024.
It would be really risky to hand the 32-year-old Valdez a lucrative contract over six years. Yes, he has proven to be a frontline starter in Houston, but it’s also hard to ignore the potential concerns.
We’ll see if the Cubs decide to make a move for the veteran.
Chicago Cubs are “expected to be finalists” for major free agent, per MLB reporter
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