The Detroit Tigers‘ biggest move of the offseason didn’t happen until early February.

That’s when they landed left-handed pitcher Framber Valdez on a three-year, $115 million contract.

So far, it’s looked like exactly the right move as he slots alongside Tarik Skubal in the rotation. And if the Tigers end up losing Skubal down the road, Valdez could take over ace status comfortably.

“Valdez didn’t sign his three-year, $115 million deal with the Tigers until Feb. 10, but the veteran left-hander has proven to be one of the best early-season signings through the first two weeks,” MLB.com’s Mark Feinsand wrote in a new article on Wednesday. “The Tigers opened with a 4-6 record after 10 games, but imagine how different that record might have looked without Valdez? The 32-year-old has allowed one earned run over 12 innings (0.75 ERA) in his first two starts, both Detroit victories. Valdez has struck out 10 batters while issuing only three walks, giving the Tigers a lethal 1-2 rotation punch with reigning American League Cy Young Award winner Tarik Skubal.”

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The Tigers actually have won more with Valdez on the mound so far than Skubal, although it’s early.

“The Tigers lost four in a row prior to Valdez’s most recent start, but the southpaw delivered six scoreless innings against the Cardinals, bringing the losing streak to a halt,” Feinsand wrote. “Manager A.J. Hinch said he may split up Skubal and Valdez in the near future, creating some more balance in the rotation.”

Valdez is a bit of a throwback pitcher who relies heavily on a sinking fastball to get groundballs. That actually made him a conceptually safer signing in free agency, because he should age more smoothly than a pitcher who only relies on velocity.

It’s been a great start for Valdez, and Detroit will be hoping he can keep it rolling.

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