Framber Valdez
YEARTEAMGGSCGSHOWLSIPHitsERSOBBHRERA
2021Ark Angels2828521290169.11638344162264.41
2022Ark Angels2222611270154.21175963108113.43
2023Ark Angels313113314110227.218410785210314.23
2024Ark Angels313114312130235.11828674214273.29
2025Ark Angels441012023.22717152226.46
MLB Player Data
DateNewsComment
Jun 29 2025Valdez (9-4) picked up the win Sunday against the Cubs, allowing five hits and two walks with six strikeouts over six scoreless innings. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Valdez posted a second straight scoreless start, and he's now gone 13 consecutive innings without allowing a run. His ERA is down to 2.72 on the year, which would be his best since 2018. In his last seven starts, Valdez is 6-0 with a 1.57 ERA and a 49:20 K:BB across 46 innings. His next start is tentatively scheduled to come against the Dodgers next weekend.
Jun 25 2025Valdez didn't factor into the decision in Tuesday's 1-0 win over Philadelphia, allowing four hits and four walks while striking out three over seven scoreless innings. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Valdez delivered his first scoreless outing since April 8, blanking the Phillies despite struggling with his control. The 31-year-old lefty has now walked at least four batters and struck out three in two consecutive starts. In his last four starts, Valdez has a 2.16 ERA and a 29:13 K:BB across 25 innings. He's tentatively scheduled to face the Cubs on Sunday in his next turn through the rotation.
Jun 19 2025Valdez (8-4) earned the win over the Athletics on Wednesday, allowing two runs on five hits and five walks while striking out three batters over six innings. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Valdez didn't have his best stuff Wednesday -- he issued a season-high five walks and notched just three strikeouts -- but he admirably managed to mostly work out of trouble to register a quality start. The southpaw trailed 1-0 after two innings, though Houston's offense kicked into gear after that, helping Valdez cruise to a relatively comfortable win. The 31-year-old held a 1-4 record through seven starts this season, but since then he's collected seven victories in eight outings, posting a 2.13 ERA, 1.02 WHIP and 62:18 K:BB over 55 frames during the latter span. He'll look to keep rolling in his next start, which is projected to be a home tilt against the Phillies.
Jun 12 2025Valdez (7-4) recorded the win Thursday against the White Sox after giving up two runs on seven hits and one walk in five innings. He struck out 12. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: After fanning what was originally a season-high 11 in his last start, Valdez one-upped himself Thursday by setting another season high in strikeouts. The star left-hander produced a whopping 20 whiffs, and he also worked at least five innings while surrendering two runs or fewer for the 10th time in 14 outings during 2025. Valdez sports a reliable 3.10 ERA, 1.09 WHIP and 96:28 K:BB over 90 innings, and his next start is slated for next week against an Athletics club that's slugging a dismal .291 versus lefties since May 14.
Jun 6 2025Valdez (6-4) allowed two runs on four hits and three walks while striking out 11 in seven innings of work during Thursday's 8-2 win over the Pirates. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Valdez turned in one of his best pitching performances of the season Thursday, striking out a season-high 11 batters on the way to the win. The 31-year-old has been dominant as of late, notching six straight performances of at least six innings and allowing three runs or fewer. Over that stretch he has a 1.84 ERA in 44 innings pitched with 47 strikeouts. The left-hander's next scheduled start is a favorable home matchup with the White Sox on Wednesday.
May 31 2025Valdez (5-4) picked up the win Friday, allowing one run on three hits and a walk over nine innings in a 2-1 victory over the Rays. He struck out nine. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The southpaw delivered his second complete game of the season, and the ninth of his career, on just 83 pitches (59 total strikes) while racking up an impressive 30 called or swinging strikes. The lone blemish on Valdez's line was a leadoff homer by Jose Caballero. Valdez has reeled off five straight quality starts, posting a 1.70 ERA, 0.84 WHIP and 36:9 K:BB in 37 innings over that stretch, and he'll look to keep rolling in his next outing, which is scheduled to come on the road next week in Pittsburgh.
May 24 2025Valdez (4-4) earned the win against the Mariners on Saturday, allowing one run on four hits and four walks with five strikeouts over six innings. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Valdez battled through command issues, tying a season high with four walks while generating just seven whiffs on 101 pitches. Despite the lack of swing-and-miss stuff, the southpaw extended his streak to four straight quality starts and has allowed three earned runs or fewer in eight of 11 outings this season. He'll carry a 3.39 ERA, 1.14 WHIP and 64:23 K:BB across 69 innings into a home matchup with the Rays next weekend.
May 18 2025Valdez (3-4) earned the win against the Rangers on Sunday, allowing three runs on six hits and one walk with eight strikeouts over seven innings. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Valdez allowed three runs in the fourth inning but worked six scoreless frames otherwise. The southpaw generated 12 whiffs on 98 pitches and has now completed at least seven innings in three straight outings. On the season, he owns a 3.57 ERA, 1.13 WHIP and 59:19 K:BB across 63 innings and lines up for a home matchup with the Mariners next weekend.
May 17 2025Valdez will start Sunday's game against the Rangers, Brian McTaggart of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Valdez was originally slated to start Monday, but the Astros appear set to return to a five-man rotation. He'll still be on regular rest and has worked at least seven innings in three of his last four starts. Ryan Gusto looks to be destined for a relief role as a result of this move.
May 13 2025Valdez didn't factor into the decision Tuesday against the Royals after allowing one run on six hits and one walk in eight innings. He struck out seven. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Valdez was highly efficient with his 89 pitches, inducing a whopping 12 groundouts and tossing eight innings for the second time this year. The star left-hander has experienced a few hiccups in 2025, but he's now fired at least six innings while giving up two runs or fewer in six of his nine starts this season. Valdez will carry a strong 3.54 ERA, 1.14 WHIP and 51:18 K:BB across 56 innings overall into his next scheduled outing against the Rays, who have a miserable .571 OPS versus left-handed pitching over their first 40 games.
May 7 2025Valdez (2-4) picked up the win in Wednesday's 9-1 victory over the Brewers, allowing one run on three hits and two walks over seven innings. He struck out seven. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The southpaw delivered his fifth quality start of the season on 101 pitches (59 strikes), with only a solo shot by Eric Haase in the fifth inning marring his line. Valdez generated 33 called or swinging strikes as he snapped a four-decision losing streak, and he'll take a 3.94 ERA, 1.19 WHIP and 44:17 K:BB through 48 innings into his next outing, which lines up to come at home early next week against the Royals.
May 2 2025Valdez (1-4) took the loss Friday versus the White Sox, allowing four runs on seven hits and two walks while striking out six over five innings. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Valdez allowed a run in each of the first two innings and then gave up two more in the fifth. The southpaw just wasn't at his sharpest Friday, throwing just 48 of 87 pitches for strikes, which isn't particularly impressive given the competition. He hasn't won since his season debut while posting a 4.39 ERA, 1.27 WHIP and 37:15 K:BB across 41 innings over seven starts in 2025. Despite his inconsistency, he has earned four quality starts. Valdez's next start is projected to be on the road in Milwaukee.
Apr 20 2025Valdez allowed two runs on seven hits and three walks while striking out two in six innings Sunday versus the Padres. He did not factor into the decision. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Valdez exhibited some early command issues with three walks and a run allowed in his first two innings. The Padres put up another run in the third after Fernando Tatis led off the frame with a triple. Valdez settled in with three scoreless frames over the back half of his start and ended at 87 pitches while pounding the zone with 63 strikes. It's been mixed results for Valdez through his first five starts, but he lowered his ERA to 4.50 after allowing seven runs against St. Louis to open up the week. He'll try to get back in the win column for the first time since his debut in a road start versus the Royals over the weekend.
Apr 14 2025Valdez (1-2) took the loss against St. Louis on Monday, allowing seven runs (six earned) on 10 hits and one walk while striking out three batters over four-plus innings. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Though Valdez didn't give up any homers, the Cardinals hit the ball plenty hard against him and racked up five doubles. The southpaw ended his outing in poor form, giving up five hits -- including three doubles -- to the final seven batters he faced and exiting in a 6-0 hole. This was Valdez's shortest outing of the campaign, as he had gone at least five frames in each of his previous three starts. It's been a roller coaster for the Astros' ace to begin the season -- he's hurled two scoreless outings, but in his other two starts he's given up a combined 11 earned runs across nine innings.
Apr 8 2025Valdez didn't factor into the decision Tuesday against Seattle after allowing two runs and one walk in six innings, striking out eight. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Valdez overcame an illness to take his turn in the rotation Tuesday, dominating the Mariners while pouring in 64 of his 94 pitches for strikes over six shutout frames. Ryan Bliss doubled off the left-hander in the fifth inning, but Valdez left him stranded in scoring position. The southpaw will carry an excellent 2.50 ERA, 0.94 WHIP and 21:2 K:BB across 18 innings (three starts) into his next scheduled appearance in St. Louis, which is tentatively set for early next week.
Apr 6 2025Astros general manager Dana Brown said Sunday that Valdez is dealing with some fatigue and a sore throat, putting his status in question for his scheduled turn through the rotation Tuesday in Seattle, Chandler Rome of The Athletic reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The left-hander could still be available to pitch Tuesday, but for now the Astros are leaving Tuesday's starter as "to-be-announced." In his first two starts of the season, Valdez has a 3.17 ERA, 1.17 WHIP and 13:6 K:BB across 12 innings.
Apr 2 2025Valdez (1-1) took the loss after allowing five runs on four hits and four walks in five innings Wednesday against the Giants. He struck out nine. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The star left-hander was ambushed early, promptly serving up a two-run home run to Willy Adames in the first inning. Luis Matos then hit a solo homer in the second, and Heliot Ramos also doubled to drive in a pair of runs during the frame. Valdez did settle in to throw three scoreless innings thereafter and fanned nine Wednesday, and he'll look to rebound in his next scheduled start at pitcher-friendly T-Mobile Park against Seattle early next week.
Mar 27 2025Valdez (1-0) picked up the win Thursday against the Mets, striking out four and giving up four hits and two walks across seven scoreless frames. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Valdez got off to a rocky start by allowing one hit and one walk in the first frame, but he managed to escape unscathed and didn't face much resistance over the following six innings. The Astros' shutout was broken in the ninth inning when Josh Hader gave up a sacrifice fly to Francisco Lindor, but the southpaw reliever managed to punch out Juan Soto for the save to give Valdez the Opening Day victory. It's a strong start to the 2025 season for Valdez after posting career bests in 2024 in ERA (2.91) and WHIP (1.11) across 176.1 regular-season frames. He's tentatively slated to face off against the Giants at home next week.
Mar 16 2025Manager Joe Espada announced Sunday that Valdez will start Opening Day against the Mets on March 27, Chandler Rome of The Athletic reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: After posting a career-best 2.91 ERA with a 1.11 WHIP and 169:55 K:BB across 176.1 regular-season innings last season, it was only a matter of time before Espada named Valdez as Houston's Opening Day starter. The left-hander has focused on the movement of his pitches during spring training and overall has pitched well with a 2.53 ERA across 10.2 innings.
Mar 9 2025Valdez allowed three runs (one earned) on four hits and four walks while striking out one in Sunday's Grapefruit League game against the Marlins. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Valdez had a rough outing on the surface, but he built up to 60 pitches before throwing 15 more in a bullpen session. Per Matt Young of the Houston Chronicle, Valdez had no concern about his line, instead noting that he was focusing on the movement on his pitches in favor of trying to rack up strikeouts or precisely hit his spots.
Feb 13 2025Valdez said Thursday that the Astros have yet to approach him or his agent regarding a contract extension, Chandler Rome of The Athletic reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Valdez is set to make $18 million during 2025 in his final year under team control, and there's been no indication to this point that Houston is eager to lock up the lefty to a long-term deal. He'll turn 32 next winter, but Valdez should have no trouble landing a sizable contract from someone following three straight top-10 finishes in voting for the American League Cy Young Award.
Jan 9 2025Valdez and the Astros agreed to a one-year, $18 million contract to avoid arbitration Thursday, Mark Feinsand of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Valdez is entering his final year of arbitration and will earn nearly $6 million more than he did in 2024. He's emerged as one of the more reliable pitchers around the league in recent seasons, posting no worse than a 3.45 ERA in any season since 2021. Valdez has also completed at least 176 innings in each of the last three campaigns.
Sep 30 2024Valdez will start Game 1 of the wild-card series versus the Tigers on Tuesday, Julia Morales of AT&T SportsNet Southwest reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: How the Astros ultimately set up their full postseason rotation will be interesting, but there wasn't much question as to whom would take the ball in Game 1. After an inconsistent first half, Valdez held a 1.96 ERA, 0.89 WHIP and 87:23 K:BB over 78 frames in 12 second-half starts. He'll be opposed by Tarik Skubal.
Sep 24 2024Valdez (15-7) allowed three runs on eight hits and two walks while striking out four over 5.2 innings to earn the win over the Mariners on Tuesday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Valdez was one out shy of a fifth straight quality start, but he was able to get the win, which also clinched the AL West for the Astros. Over his last five starts, he's allowed five runs across 33 innings with a 30:11 K:BB in that span. The southpaw is now at a 2.91 ERA, 1.11 WHIP and 169:55 K:BB through 176.1 innings across 28 starts this season. Valdez's next start is likely to come in the playoffs. He is on turn to pitch during the wild-card round, as the Astros are locked in to finishing third among the American League's division winners.
Sep 18 2024Valdez (14-7) took the loss Wednesday against San Diego, allowing one run on five hits and two walks across seven innings. He struck out six. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Valdez's seven innings of one-run ball weren't enough to keep him from the loss column, as Dylan Cease fired 8.1 scoreless innings for the Padres. Valdez has been excellent since the start of August, tallying a 1.33 ERA and a 57:15 K:BB across 54.1 innings. He's tentatively scheduled to face the Mariners next time out.
Sep 12 2024Valdez didn't factor into the decision Thursday against Oakland, allowing a run on five hits and a walk over 6.1 innings. He struck out six. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Valdez looked like he was on his way to a third-straight scoreless outing, as he blanked the A's through six innings. However, Oakland would eventually scratch a run across in the seventh before Brent Rooker tied the game 2-2 with a homer off Valdez in the eighth. While it was a tough finish, it was another excellent start overall for the left-hander, who's posted a 1.33 ERA over his last seven outings (47.1 innings). Valdez is 14-6 on the season with a 2.91 ERA, 1.09 WHIP and 159:51 K:BB across 163.2 innings. He's currently scheduled to face the Padres on the road next week in his next outing.
Sep 7 2024Valdez (14-6) picked up the win in Friday's 8-0 rout of the Diamondbacks, allowing two hits and three walks over seven scoreless innings. He struck out seven. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Valdez has now held the opposition scoreless three times in his last four trips to the mound. The southpaw has been nearly untouchable since the beginning of August, giving up only 15 hits in 41 innings over his last six starts en route to a 1.32 ERA, 0.66 WHIP and 45:12 K:BB. Valdez will look to stay dominant in his next outing, which is scheduled to come at home next week against the Athletics.
Aug 31 2024Valdez came away with a no-decision in Friday's 3-2 win over the Royals, walking three batters over seven no-hit, scoreless innings. He struck out seven. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The southpaw closed the books on August the same way he started it, by teasing a no-hitter, but Valdez left the mound after 98 pitches (60 strikes) with Houston clinging to a 1-0 lead that Josh Hader eventually squandered. The quality start was Valdez's 14th of the year, and he didn't give up more than three runs in any of his five August outings, posting a 1.59 ERA, 0.65 WHIP and 38:9 K:BB through 34 innings on the month. He'll look to keep rolling in his next start, which lines up to come at home next weekend against the Diamondbacks.
Aug 24 2024Valdez (13-6) took the loss against the Orioles on Saturday, allowing three runs on six hits and one walk with eight strikeouts over 5.2 innings. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Valdez was pulled with a 2-0 lead and the bases loaded in the sixth inning but all three runs crossed home plate on a pinch-hit double by Jackson Holliday. It was the southpaw's first loss since June 18 and just the second time in seven starts since the All-Star break he allowed more than two earned runs. On the season, he owns a 3.27 ERA, 1.14 WHIP and 139:44 K:BB across 143.1 innings and lines up for a home matchup with the Royals next week.
Aug 18 2024Valdez (13-5) allowed three hits and a walk over seven shutout frames Sunday, striking out nine and picking up a win over the White Sox. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Valdez did not allow a runner to reach scoring position and, at one point, retired 11 straight batters in the dominant victory. He's struck out at least nine batters in five of his last seven starts, resulting in a 59:12 K:BB through 46.1 frames. Valdez is 8-0 with an impressive 2.39 ERA over his last 10 appearances. On the year, he owns a 3.20 ERA with a 131:43 K:BB over 137.2 innings. Valdez's next start is projected to be in Baltimore.
Aug 12 2024Valdez (12-5) earned the win Monday, allowing one run on three hits and one walk over 5.2 innings against the Rays. He struck out nine. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Valdez allowed Taylor Walls to double his season total in extra-base hits but otherwise allowed just a couple of singles and a walk that tallied merely one run. Valdez was on track for a quality start, but a two-out walk left him at 101 pitches and his night ended one out shy of his 13th such effort on the season. The veteran lefty hasn't taken the loss during any of his last nine starts, going 7-0 with a 2.68 ERA and 1.12 WHIP while punching out 66 batters over 57 innings during that stretch. He's next slated to take the hill in a highly favorable home matchup against the fledgling White Sox.
Aug 7 2024Valdez (11-5) picked up the win Tuesday in a 4-2 victory over the Rangers, allowing two runs on one hit and three walks over 8.2 innings. He struck out five. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The southpaw headed into the ninth inning with a chance to deliver his second career no-hitter, but after issuing a two-out walk to Josh Smith, Valdez's 107th pitch of the night got blasted into the right-field seats by Corey Seager. Valdez had to settle for his 12th quality start of the season, but he remains locked in, winning six straight decisions over his last eight outings with a 2.81 ERA, 1.17 WHIP and 57:17 K:BB through 51.1 innings. He'll look to keep rolling in his next start, which lines up to come on the road early next week in Tampa Bay.
Jul 31 2024Valdez (10-5) allowed four runs on six hits and struck out 10 without walking a batter to earn the win Wednesday over the Pirates. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: All of the damage came in the second inning, as Joey Bart tagged Valdez for a two-run home run and the Pirates put up another two runs before he could escape the frame. The southpaw bounced back well, allowing just one single over his last four innings, and the Astros' offense picked him up. Valdez finished July with a 2.90 ERA and 40:9 K:BB over 31 innings, winning four of his five starts for the month. Overall, he has a 3.56 ERA, 1.25 WHIP and 108:38 K:BB through 116.1 innings over 19 starts. He's projected to make his next start on the road versus the Rangers.
Jul 27 2024Valdez (9-5) picked up the win Friday, allowing four hits and two walks over 6.1 scoreless innings in a 5-0 victory over the Dodgers. He struck out 10. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The 10 strikeouts tied his season high, a mark he set in his final outing before the All-Star break, while the quality start was his 11th of the campaign. Valdez has been locked in since the beginning of June, giving up three runs or fewer in nine of his last 10 starts while posting a 2.73 ERA, 1.20 WHIP and 60:23 K:BB in 62.2 innings. He lines up to make his next trip to the mound at home next weekend against a Rays squad that could be seriously depleted after the trade deadline.
Jul 21 2024Valdez did not factor into the decision in a win over Seattle on Saturday, allowing two runs on three hits and four walks over 5.2 innings. He struck out six. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Valdez managed to keep Seattle off the board until the bottom of the sixth when Julio Rodriguez took him deep for a two-run shot. The lefty was then relieved by Tayler Scott with two outs in the frame, narrowly missing out on his third straight quality start. Valdez hasn't allowed more than three earned runs in any of his last five outings, though he's now issued multiple free passes in five of his last six. Over that latter stretch he's 3-1 with a 37:17 K:BB.
Jul 10 2024Valdez (8-5) allowed one run on six hits and a walk while striking out 10 over seven innings to earn the win over the Marlins on Wednesday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: This is the seventh time this season Valdez has gone at least seven innings, and he's allowed more than one run in just one of those outings. The southpaw has earned quality starts in four of his last five games, allowing 13 runs (10 earned) over 30.2 innings in that span. For the season, he's at a 3.66 ERA, 1.28 WHIP and 82:32 K:BB across 98.1 innings through 16 starts. He's been giving up a lot of hits this season, but he's done a decent job at damage control and could have a strong second half if he can keep traffic off the bases.
Jul 4 2024Valdez (7-5) earned the win over Toronto on Thursday, allowing three runs on nine hits and two walks while striking out four batters over six innings. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: It looked like Valdez could be in for a rough outing when five of the first six batters he faced got a hit, resulting in three runs. However, the left-hander got out of that frame without incurring additional damage, and he went on to complete six frames without surrendering any additional runs. Eight of the nine hits Valdez allowed overall were singles, which was key in limiting damage, as Toronto hit into four double plays against him. This was far from Valdez's sharpest outing, but he was nonetheless able to log his seventh victory and ninth quality start of the campaign.
Jun 29 2024Valdez allowed six runs on 10 hits and three walks while striking out five over 4.2 innings in a no-decision versus the Mets on Saturday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Valdez struggled in the second and third innings, but the Astros were able to rally back to help him avoid a loss. Over six outings in June, he allowed 16 runs across 37.2 innings, though 11 of those runs came in two starts. The southpaw is still struggling compared to his usual level of performance with a 4.11 ERA, 1.29 WHIP and 68:29 K:BB over 85.1 innings through 14 starts this year. Valdez is projected to make his next start on the road in Toronto.
Jun 23 2024Valdez (6-5) allowed a run on six hits and two walks over seven innings Sunday, striking out seven and earning a win against Baltimore. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Valdez rolled through five shutout frames without facing too much trouble before Jordan Westburg belted a solo shot in the sixth inning. The Astros gave Valdez plenty of run support as he halted a brief two-start losing streak. It was the third time this year he's struck out at least seven batters, and each of those outings have come in his last eight starts. He's produced an impressive 2.73 ERA through 33 innings this month, lowering his season mark to 3.68 across 80.2 frames. Valdez will carry a 63:26 K:BB into his next outing, which is projected to be on the road against the Mets.
Jun 18 2024Valdez (5-5) took the loss Tuesday against the White Sox, allowing two runs on two hits and five walks over 6.1 innings. He struck out five. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The Houston southpaw toiled against a weak White Sox team that entered the evening collectively batting .220 with a 7.1 percent walk rate -- both qualifying as the second-worst marks in the majors. The five walks Valdez issued were the most since his first start this season against the Yankees on March 28, when he issued six free passes. The 30-year-old now sports a 3.91 ERA, 1.21 WHIP and 56:24 K:BB over 73.2 innings. Valdez faces a difficult test in his next scheduled outing, slated to come against Baltimore at home this weekend.
Jun 12 2024Valdez (5-4) took the loss Wednesday against San Francisco, allowing five runs on eight hits and a walk over five innings. He struck out one. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: It was a tough day for Valdez, who allowed two runs in the third inning before the Giants scored three more in the fourth. The 30-year-old Valdez had allowed just five runs in three starts (22 innings) coming into Wednesday's matchup. The left-hander now sports a 3.99 ERA with a 1.21 WHIP and 51:19 K:BB across 67.2 innings this year. Valdez will look to rebound in his next outing, currently scheduled for early next week on the road versus the White Sox.
Jun 7 2024Valdez tossed a complete game to earn the win Friday over the Angels, allowing one run on four hits and a walk while striking out eight over nine innings. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The Astros' bullpen was fairly fresh, but Valdez took care of business himself in his seventh career complete game. The lone mistake on his line was a Kevin Pillar solo home run in the second inning. Valdez has quality starts in four of his last five outings, and his strong performance Friday lowered his ERA to 3.53 with a 1.15 WHIP and 50:18 K:BB over 63.2 innings through 10 starts this season. The southpaw is projected to make his next start on the road versus the Giants.
Jun 1 2024Valdez (4-3) earned the win over Minnesota on Saturday, allowing one run on two hits and two walks while striking out four batters over seven innings. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Valdez needed a modest 85 pitches to get through seven frames before turning the game over to the bullpen. He notched his second straight quality start and fourth over his past five contests. Overall, Valdez has given up three or fewer earned runs in seven of his nine starts on the campaign.
May 27 2024Valdez (3-3) took the loss against Seattle on Monday, allowing three runs on six hits and three walks while striking out four batters over six innings. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Valdez looked to be in for a rough night after giving up three runs on four hits in the first inning, but he settled in from there and yielded just two hits and no runs the rest of the way. That allowed him to squeak by with a quality start, though he nonetheless ended with his second straight loss. Valdez gave up eight runs over five frames against the Angels in his previous appearance, so this was a decent bounce-back despite the difficult first inning. The left-hander tentatively lines up to face Minnesota at home in his next start.
May 20 2024Valdez (3-2) allowed eight runs on 10 hits and a walk while striking out three over five innings to take the loss Monday versus the Angels. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Valdez followed up his start of seven shutout innings versus the Athletics with a dud Monday. He was doing fine until the Angels rallied for seven runs in the fifth, including three-run home runs by Nolan Schanuel and Logan O'Hoppe and a solo shot from Jo Adell. Valdez is now at a 4.32 ERA, 1.32 WHIP and 34:12 K:BB through 41.2 innings over seven starts this season. He's projected to make his next start on the road in Seattle.
May 16 2024Valdez (3-1) picked up the win over Oakland on Wednesday, hurling seven shutout innings while allowing just two hits and two walks. He struck out eight. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Valdez breezed through Oakland's lineup throughout the contest, retiring 11 of the first 12 batters he faced while never allowing a runner to reach second, aside from when Shea Langeliers advanced due to a balk in the seventh. It marked the lefty's second start this season in which he didn't allow any runs, while the two hits allowed marked a season low. Valdez has now won three of his last four decisions (spanning four starts), posting a 21:5 K:BB over that stretch.
May 10 2024Valdez (2-1) earned the win Friday over the Tigers, allowing two runs on six hits and two walks over seven innings. He struck out four. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Valdez allowed two runs on a Matt Vierling double in the third inning before blanking Detroit over his final four frames en route to his second victory of the year. It's an encouraging bounce-back effort from Valdez, who allowed five runs in a loss to Seattle in his previous start. The left-hander lowered his ERA to 3.64 with a 1.35 WHIP and 23:9 K:BB across five starts (29.2 innings). Valdez, who has walked only one batter over his past three starts, is currently scheduled for a home matchup with the A's in his next outing.
May 4 2024Valdez (1-1) took the loss against Seattle on Saturday, allowing five runs on nine hits and one walk while striking out three batters over 5.1 innings. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Valdez had arguably his worst start of the campaign, as the five runs and nine hits he allowed were both season-worst marks while he recorded a season-low three punchouts. The right-hander also gave up his first two homers of the year, with Cal Raleigh's two-run shot in the sixth inning resulting in the hurler getting the hook. Since being activated from the injured list April 27 following a near month-long absence due to an elbow injury, Valdez has surrendered seven runs on 14 hits across 10.1 frames over two starts.
Apr 28 2024Valdez allowed two runs on five hits over five innings Sunday, striking out six and earning a win over the Rockies. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Valdez was activated from the injured list and made his first appearance since April 2. He coughed up a pair of runs in the second inning but otherwise looked solid. He forced 13 swinging strikes and his sinker touched 96 mph. Through three starts this season, Valdez has produced a 2.60 ERA with a 16:6 K:BB across 17.1 frames. He's currently projected for a home start against the Mariners next weekend.
Apr 27 2024The Astros removed Valdez (elbow) from the 15-day injured list Saturday, per the MLB transaction log. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Valdez is set to start in Sunday's game against the Rockies as part of a two-game series in Mexico City. The 30-year-old southpaw landed on the Astros' 15-day IL on April 9 due to left elbow inflammation. Valdez threw a 40-pitch bullpen session Wednesday, and he will likely be on a pitch count over his first few outings.
Apr 25 2024Astros manager Joe Espada said that Valdez (elbow) will return from the 15-day injured list to start Sunday's game against the Rockies in Mexico City, Chandler Rome of The Athletic reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Valdez has been on the IL since April 9 due to inflammation in his left elbow. He built up to 40 pitches in his last bullpen session Wednesday, so his first start back from the injured list will likely be an abbreviated one. In any case, his return will still give Houston's rotation a much-needed boost following the recent move of Cristian Javier (neck) to the IL. Valdez surrendered three earned runs and struck out 10 batters over 12.1 innings across his first two starts before getting injured. Given Valdez's expected workload restriction Sunday in addition to the high altitude in Mexico City likely creating a hitter-friendly environment, fantasy managers may want to hold off on immediately activating the southpaw.
Apr 24 2024Valdez (elbow) completed a 40-pitch bullpen session Wednesday and is scheduled to pitch Saturday or Sunday against the Rockies in Mexico City, Brian McTaggart of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The left-hander landed on injured list with elbow inflammation April 9, and it appears he'll return after missing little more than the 15-day minimum. Valdez will likely face some workload limitations in his first few starts back given he's built up to only 40 pitches, but it will be a welcome return for a Houston rotation that's now also missing Cristian Javier (neck).
Apr 20 2024Valdez (elbow) threw a 30-pitch bullpen session Saturday, Matt Kawahara of the Houston Chronicle reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Saturday's session marks the first time Valdez has thrown off a mound since elbow inflammation sent him to the injured list April 9. The Astros will wait to see how he recovers before determining his next steps, though manager Joe Espada said it's still possible the 30-year-old southpaw is able to return without embarking on a rehab assignment.
Apr 19 2024Astros manager Joe Espada said Valdez (elbow) played catch Friday and could throw off a mound as soon as Saturday or Sunday, Matt Kawahara of the Houston Chronicle reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The left-hander quickly resumed throwing after landing on the injured list April 9 with elbow inflammation, and his return to mound work will be another encouraging step. Valdez won't be ready to return from the injured list when first eligible next week, but given his current progression he could seemingly be back with the Astros sometime in early May.
Apr 15 2024Valdez (elbow) played some light catch Monday, Chandler Rome of The Athletic reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: He had been slated to play catch Tuesday, but evidently the decision was made to move it up a day. Valdez is on the injured list with left elbow inflammation but is hopeful that he can return when first eligible April 23. It's possible, though he certainly has more work to do first before he can reach that goal.
Apr 14 2024Valdez (elbow) said he's scheduled to play catch Tuesday and hopes to return from the 15-day injured list when first eligible, Brian McTaggart of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The quick return to throwing bodes well for the left-hander after he landed on the injured list with elbow inflammation, though that hardly guarantees a quick return from the IL. The Astros should provide more clarity on Valdez's outlook after he throws Tuesday.
Apr 11 2024Astros manager Joe Espada said Thursday that Valdez (elbow) is feeling better and could play catch within the next few days, Chandler Rome of The Athletic reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Valdez was placed on the injured list Tuesday with left elbow inflammation, but it's certainly a good sign that he's made improvement after a few days of rest. A potential timetable for the southpaw's return won't be available until he ramps up his throwing again, but the Astros seem optimistic that it won't be a long-term absence for Valdez.
Apr 9 2024Valdez was placed on the 15-day injured list Tuesday with left elbow inflammation, Chandler Rome of The Athletic reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: It's not a major surprise after the left-hander was scratched from his start Monday due to elbow soreness. Valdez will be shut down from throwing for the next couple days before being re-evaluated, so at this point he's without a clear timeline for his return beyond the 15-day minimum for the injured list.
Apr 8 2024Valdez was scratched ahead of his scheduled start Monday against the Rangers after experiencing soreness in the top of his left elbow after playing catch, Chandler Rome of The Athletic reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Valdez has been sent back to Houston to be evaluated by team doctors. Both Astros manager Joe Espada and general manager Dana Brown have downplayed the level of concern, noting that the lefty hasn't yet been placed on the injured list. That said, more won't be known until the team gets results of the exam, which won't be until at least Tuesday. Blair Henley is drawing a spot start Monday in Valdez's place.
Apr 2 2024Valdez did not factor into the decision Tuesday, allowing six hits and no walks over 7.2 scoreless innings in a 2-1 loss to Toronto. He struck out five. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: After issuing six walks over 4.2. innings against the Yankees on Opening Day, Valdez returned to form Tuesday against Toronto, throwing 61 of his 85 pitches for strikes while limiting hard contact. However, despite shutting the Jays out for 7.2 innings, Valdez ultimately wound up with a no-decision after Josh Hader allowed a two-run homer to Davis Schneider in the ninth. The 30-year-old Valdez will be looking for his first win of the campaign in his next start, currently scheduled for Monday against the Rangers.
Mar 28 2024Valdez allowed three runs on five hits and six walks over 4.2 innings in a no-decision Thursday against the Yankees. He struck out five. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Valdez managed to skirt danger through the first four innings, holding the Yankees off the board thanks to three double-play balls. However, the left-hander's shaky command finally caught up with him in the fifth, when he was tagged for three runs. While his final line ultimately could have looked a lot worse, it's a discouraging outing from Valdez, who's expected to anchor the Astros' rotation while Justin Verlander (shoulder) is sidelined. Valdez went 12-11 last season with a 3.45 ERA, 1.13 WHIP and 200:57 K:BB across 31 starts.
Mar 15 2024Astros manager Joe Espada announced Friday that Valdez will be the team's Opening Day starter, Chandler Rome of The Athletic reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Valdez was the obvious choice with Justin Verlander (shoulder) on the shelf. The veteran left-hander held a 2.51 first-half ERA but a 4.66 ERA after the All-Star break last season. He will be taking on the Yankees at home on March 28.
Mar 6 2024Valdez will not make his scheduled Grapefruit League start Wednesday against the Mets and will instead face hitters in a simulated game, Matt Kawahara of the Houston Chronicle reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: With a threat of rain in the afternoon, the Astros have changed plans and will now have Valdez throw on the back fields in the morning to ensure he gets his work in. Seth Martinez will step in to face the Mets, weather permitting. Coming off a second straight All-Star season, Valdez looks like a lock to start for Houston on Opening Day, especially given that Justin Verlander (shoulder) has been ruled out for the start of the season.
Feb 29 2024Valdez will experiment with calling some of his own pitches during spring training, Chandler Rome of The Athletic reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Valdez will wear a PitchCom device that will allow him to send signals to the catcher beginning with his Grapefruit League debut Friday. Assuming the experiment goes well, he's expected to continue the practice into the regular season, though it's unclear if any other Astros starter will follow suit. Valdez appears to be making the shift as a result of the departure of Martin Maldonado, who caught every inning that he threw in 2023 and all but three frames in the last two seasons.
Jan 11 2024Valdez signed a one-year, $12.1 million contract with the Astros on Thursday to arbitration, Chandler Rome of The Athletic reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Valdez has proven to be among the most durable pitchers in the league, throwing a combined 399.1 innings across the last two campaigns. His results have also been strong in that span, and he managed a 3.45 ERA with a 1.13 WHIP and 200:57 K:BB in 2023. Valdez will nearly double his salary as a result and will be a key in the Astros' rotation once again for the upcoming campaign.
Oct 22 2023Valdez took the loss in Sunday's 9-2 defeat to the Rangers in Game 6 of the ALCS, allowing three runs on five hits and two walks across five innings. He struck out six. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Valdez fared better in this outing given that he could not make it out of the third inning in his last start, but it still was not enough for him to avoid his third loss in a row. The bulk of the damage came off a changeup he hung in the zone to Jonah Heim that was scraped over the wall for a two-run shot. Valdez's struggles this postseason are surprising compared to his robust 3.45 ERA across 198 innings in the regular season, although it may be that such a large workload has seen him tiring out at the finish line. On the other hand, he managed to keep his strikeouts in line with his average 6.5 per start, hinting at his upside if he can limit his mistakes. Valdez has pitched to a 9.00 ERA and 2.08 WHIP with 17 strikeouts across 12 innings this postseason.
Oct 20 2023Valdez will start Sunday in Game 6 of the ALCS against the Rangers, Chandler Rome of The Athletic reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Valdez was rocked for five runs -- four earned -- over just 2.2 innings in taking a loss in Game 2, so he'll be looking for better results Sunday on an extra day of rest. Nathan Eovaldi is lined up to start Game 6 for the Rangers.
Oct 14 2023Valdez will start Monday against Texas in Game 2 of the ALCS, Matt Kawahara of the Houston Chronicle reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Valdez had a tough time getting through his first appearance of the postseason, surrendering five runs over 4.1 innings against Minnesota in Game 2 of the ALDS. Valdez has been a reliable member of Houston's rotation with a 3.45 ERA and 1.13 WHIP in the regular season, but momentum will not be on his side against the Rangers after three consecutive shaky outings.
Oct 8 2023Valdez allowed five runs on seven hits and three walks across 4.1 innings, taking the loss in Sunday's 6-2 defeat against the Twins in Game 2 of the ALDS. He struck out five. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Valdez is a typically reliable member of the Astros rotation, although he is no stranger to the occasional volatile outing. Sunday's start marked the sixth time in 32 starts this season that the southpaw has given up five or more earned runs. Valdez gave up three of his runs on at-bats by Carlos Correa, who knocked in runners in both the first and fifth innings to stick Valdez with the loss. The sixth-year pitcher has fared better overall in the postseason for his career, pitching to a 3.82 ERA and 1.26 WHIP across 73 innings with 80 strikeouts.
Oct 5 2023Valdez will start for the Astros on Sunday in Game 2 of the ALDS against the Twins, Chandler Rome of The Athletic reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Houston will go with Justin Verlander for the series opener before turning to Valdez in Game 2. Valdez was a little shaky in his final two starts of the regular season with 10 runs (nine earned) allowed over 9.1 innings, although he fanned 17 batters to finish with an even 200 strikeouts on the season.
Sep 27 2023Valdez allowed three runs on five hits and five walks while striking out seven over four innings in a no-decision versus the Mariners on Wednesday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Valdez walked five batters for the third time this year, and he's issued multiple free passes in three of his last five starts. This was a short outing of 83 pitches (49 strikes), which could allow Valdez to line up for an early playoff game or potentially a brief bullpen assignment over the weekend if the Astros are looking to secure a playoff spot. Through 198 innings this year, he's posted a 3.45 ERA, 1.13 WHIP and 200:57 K:BB over 31 starts.
Sep 22 2023Valdez (12-11) allowed seven runs (six earned) on four hits and three walks over 5.1 innings, striking out 10 and taking a loss against Kansas City. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The Royals pounced on Valdez with a four-run first inning and set the tone for the rest of the game. He held them off until the sixth inning where he was then charged with three more runs. Despite the rough performance, he reached double-digit strikeouts for the fourth time this year and the second time this month while forcing 16 whiffs. Valdez owns a 3.57 ERA in 10 starts since the beginning of August despite allowing at least six runs on three occasions during that span. He'll carry a 3.39 ERA into this next appearance, which is lined up to be in Seattle next week.
Sep 17 2023Valdez (12-10) earned the win Sunday, allowing one run (zero earned) on five hits and one walk over seven innings in a 7-1 win over the Royals. He struck out five. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: A throwing error led to an unearned run that gave Kansas City an early lead, but Valdez was aided by a couple of double plays and an out at the plate to otherwise keep the Royals off the board. It was the fifth consecutive quality start for Valdez who has gone at least seven innings in seven of his last nine starts. Among all qualified American League starters, Valdez ranks second in innings (188.2), fifth in ERA (3.20), sixth in WHIP (1.09), seventh in strikeouts (183) and second in quality starts (20). He's currently penciled in to face the Royals again next weekend in Houston.
Sep 11 2023Valdez (11-10) took the loss against Oakland on Monday, allowing three runs on four hits and one walk while striking out 10 batters over seven innings. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Valdez racked up 18 swinging strikes and finished with his third double-digit punchout game of the season, but he also served up two long balls. Those were enough to send him to the loss in a game during which Houston was held to three hits and no runs by a trio of Oakland hurlers. Valdez nonetheless extended his streak of quality starts to four, and he's allowed just six runs over 27 innings during that stretch. The Dominican hurler is tied for fourth in the majors with 19 quality starts on the campaign and also holds a 3.32 ERA, 1.10 WHIP and 178:48 K:BB over 181.2 frames.
Sep 5 2023Valdez (11-9) earned the win Tuesday, allowing one run on six hits and four walks over seven innings against the Rangers. He struck out four. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Valdez kept one of MLB's most explosive offenses in check Tuesday, allowing just one run to score across seven innings of work. However, he did endure some hiccups, most notably handing out four walks. Regardless, Tuesday's performance continued a strong stretch for Valdez, who owns a 1.35 ERA and a 15:9 K:BB across his last three appearances (20 innings). He's tentatively scheduled to take on the Athletics at MInute Maid Park for his next start.
Aug 31 2023Valdez (10-9) picked up the win in Wednesday's 7-4 victory over the Red Sox, giving up four runs (two earned) on five hits over six innings. He struck out five without walking a batter. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The southpaw blanked Boston for five frames before fading in the sixth, but a Jeremy Pena error helped reduce the damage to his ERA and Houston had already piled up a seven-run lead. It's Valdez's first win since his no-hitter Aug. 1 against the Guardians, with the two outings bookending a month in which he posted a 3.67 ERA, 0.96 WHIP and 30:11 K:BB through 41.2 innings. Valdez will look to take some momentum into his next start, which is likely to come early next week on the road against the Rangers.
Aug 25 2023Valdez did not factor into the decision Friday, allowing five walks but no hits over seven shutout innings versus the Tigers. He struck out six. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Valdez hadn't walked more than two in any start since the beginning of July, but his control abandoned him in this one, as he also hit a batter in addition to the five free passes. His pitch count ballooned to 114 through seven frames because of the wildness, leaving Astros manager Dusty Baker with no choice but to pull Valdez in the middle of a no-hitter. Bryan Abreu lost the no-hitter in the eighth and Ryan Pressly lost the game in the ninth. Valdez, of course, completed a no-hitter earlier this month against the Guardians, but he's been up-and-down since the All-Star break (5.33 ERA), mixing in some clunkers with brilliant efforts like this one.
Aug 19 2023Valdez (9-9) took the loss Saturday, allowing six runs on 10 hits and two walks over five innings against the Mariners. He struck out five. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Valdez struggled to get through the Mariners lineup, giving up a season-high 10 hits and tying his season high in runs allowed. He struggled mightily with power, giving up five extra-base hits on the day, including a two-run home run to Dylan Moore in the fifth. Since throwing a no-hitter on Aug. 1, Valdez owns a 6.86 ERA, a 12:5 K:BB and a 2.3 HR/9 over 19.2 innings. He's set up for a bounce-back opportunity in his next projected start, which is tentatively scheduled to come against the Tigers in Detroit.
Aug 14 2023Valdez (9-8) took the loss Monday, allowing four runs (three earned) on six hits and a walk over 7.2 innings against the Marlins. He struck out four. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: It was a solid outing overall for Valdez -- he allowed just one earned run through his first six innings before allowing back-to-back homers to Jorge Soler and Luis Arraez in the eighth. The 29-year-old Valdez had allowed four or more runs in four of his previous five outings (his no-hitter on Aug. 1 was the lone outlier), working to a 6.10 ERA in that span. Overall, he sports a 3.31 ERA with a 1.08 WHIP and 148:36 K:BB across 23 starts (149.2 innings) this season. Valdez is currently lined up for a home matchup with the Red Sox in his next start.
Aug 8 2023Valdez did not factor into the decision Tuesday, allowing six runs on eight hits and two walks over seven innings against the Orioles. He struck out three. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Coming off a complete-game no-hitter in his last start, Valdez came back to earth in Baltimore, tying his season highs in runs and hits allowed. Outside of the no-no, Valdez has allowed four or more runs in four consecutive starts and has struck out fewer than five batters three times in that stretch. All in all, Valdez owns a 3.30 ERA with a 144:35 K:BB through 142 innings and is tentatively scheduled to make his next appearance against the slumping Angels this weekend.
Aug 1 2023Valdez (9-7) earned the win Tuesday, allowing one walk across nine no-hit innings against Cleveland. He struck out seven. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Valdez held the Guardians hitless over nine innings for MLB's third no-hitter of 2023. The lefty came up just one walk shy of a perfect game, letting Oscar Gonzalez reach safely in the fifth inning. The outing got Valdez back on track after he surrendered 15 total runs across his last three outings (15 innings). Through 21 appearances (135 innings), Valdez owns a 3.07 ERA and a 141:33 K:BB and will look to keep the ball rolling in his next start, which is expected to come against the Orioles in Baltimore.
Jul 26 2023Valdez (8-7) allowed six runs on eight hits and two walks while striking out only one over 3.2 innings to take the loss Wednesday versus the Rangers. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The six runs were a new season high for Valdez, who has given up at least four runs in four of his last five outings. He also surrendered multiple home runs for the third time this season, including twice in his last three starts. The struggling southpaw is now at a 3.29 ERA, 1.14 WHIP and 134:32 K:BB through 126 innings over 20 starts. Valdez is lined up for a home start versus the Guardians next week.
Jul 21 2023Valdez (8-6) allowed four runs on six hits and two walks while striking out four over five innings to earn the win Friday over the Athletics. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Valdez suffered a cramp in his left calf in his last start, but it appears his exit this time was due to a high pitch count. He needed 96 pitches (59 strikes) to complete five frames, but he got enough run support to escape with the win. Valdez has allowed at least four runs in three of his last four starts -- a concerning trend, but not one that's negatively impacted his numbers too much. The southpaw still has a 2.94 ERA, 1.10 WHIP and 133:30 K:BB through 122.1 innings over 19 starts. Valdez is projected for a tough home start versus the Rangers next week.
Jul 19 2023Valdez (calf) will start Friday in Oakland, Greg Rajan of the Houston Chronicle reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Valdez had to exit his last outing with a cramp in his left calf, but he got through his normal between-starts bullpen session Wednesday with no issues. The left-hander has posted a 2.76 ERA in 18 starts this season, and his 27.4 percent strikeout rate would be a career best.
Jul 18 2023Astros manager Dusty Baker said in an interview on SportsTalk 790 in Houston on Tuesday that he's unsure whether Valdez (calf) will be ready for his next scheduled start Friday in Oakland. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Valdez had to exit his last start on Saturday versus the Angels due to a left calf cramp. The decision for the left-hander to take the ball on Friday likely will be determined based on whether he can get through his normal between-starts bullpen session with no issues. Valdez tied a career high with 13 strikeouts against the Angels before the injury.
Jul 15 2023Valdez was removed from Saturday's start versus the Angels in the seventh inning with an apparent injury, Brian McTaggart of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Valdez had just served up a two-run home run to Zach Neto and was removed in the middle of the at-bat against the next hitter. It's worth noting that he had already thrown 103 pitches, so hopefully the left-hander's removal was just precautionary. Valdez has dealt with an ankle injury recently, although there's no indication whether that's what was bothering him Saturday. The southpaw was magnificent versus the Halos, striking out 13 batters and inducing 23 whiffs.
Jul 9 2023Astros manager Dusty Baker said Sunday that Valdez won't be available to pitch in Tuesday's All-Star Game, Brian McTaggart of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Blue Jays closer Jordan Romano has already been appointed to the American League roster as a replacement for Valdez, who recently overcame a sprained ankle to start in Saturday's 3-2 win. Though Valdez didn't suffer any setbacks with the ankle while covering six innings in the outing, Baker said that the Astros won't take any chances with the left-hander coming off the injury. Since he's skipping out on the Midsummer Classic, Valdez could be ready to start the Astros' first game out of the All-Star break Friday in Anaheim versus the Angels.
Jul 8 2023Valdez allowed two runs on five hits and two walks while striking out six over six innings in a no-decision versus the Mariners on Saturday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Valdez was hampered by a sprained ankle over the last week, but he was able to avoid the injured list and only missed one turn through the rotation. He had a full workload with 105 pitches (66 strikes) in his fourth quality start since the beginning of June. The southpaw is at a 2.51 ERA, 1.05 WHIP and 116:26 K:BB through 111 innings over 17 starts this season. He'll likely take the mound in the Astros' three-game road series versus the Angels following his attendance at the All-Star Game.
Jul 6 2023Valdez (ankle) has been cleared to make his next start Saturday against the Mariners, Chandler Rome of The Athletic reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Though a sprained ankle prevented Valdez from making his previous turn through the rotation this past Sunday versus the Rangers, the lefty showed enough improvement to avoid a stint on the injured list. Earlier this week, manager Dusty Baker told Rome that his plan was to have Valdez start Thursday's series opener versus Seattle, but the two-time All-Star will instead get a couple extra days to rest up. With Houston opting to skip the struggling Cristian Javier's final turn through the rotation before the All-Star break, Ronel Blanco is expected to be called up from Triple-A Sugar Land to start Thursday.
Jul 4 2023Valdez (ankle) will start for the Astros on Thursday versus the Mariners, Chandler Rome of The Athletic reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Valdez will go more than a week in between starts after dealing with a sprained right ankle, which he originally suffered back on June 20. The veteran left-hander threw 94 pitches in his last start against the Cardinals, but it's not clear if the Astros might place any limitations on him Thursday as he comes back from injury.
Jul 1 2023Valdez won't make his scheduled start Sunday against the Rangers due to a sprained ankle, Chandler Rome of The Athletic reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Valdez reportedly sprained his ankle during his start against the Mets on June 20, and the issue has gotten progressively worse since then. It's still possible Valdez makes one more start before the All-Star break -- tentatively scheduled for July 7 -- but the Astros will monitor how Valdez is feeling. No replacement starter has been named yet for Sunday's game.
Jun 28 2023Valdez (7-6) took the loss Tuesday as the Astros were downed 4-2 by the Cardinals, giving up four runs on eight hits and three walks over six innings. He struck out six. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: While the southpaw was able to limit the damage to some extent, Valdez wasn't at his sharpest, uncorking three wild pitches while tossing 61 of 94 pitches for strikes. He also got taken deep by Paul DeJong in the third inning, the first homer Valdez had served up since May 15. He'll carry a 2.49 ERA, 1.05 WHIP and 110:24 K:BB through 105 innings into his next outing, likely to come this weekend on the road against the Rangers.
Jun 20 2023Valdez (7-5) earned the win Tuesday against the Mets after he allowed two runs on four hits and one walk over eight innings. He struck out nine. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The left-hander kept New York off the board until the eighth inning, when it pushed across two runs on three hits and a sacrifice fly. Valdez now has four wins in his past six starts with a 1.50 ERA, 0.83 WHIP and 39:9 K:BB during that span. He's established himself as Houston's ace this season following the departure of Justin Verlander and is on pace for a career year.
Jun 14 2023Valdez did not factor into the decision Wednesday, allowing a run on five hits and zero walks over seven innings against the Nationals. He struck out six. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Valdez was dominant again Wednesday but failed to earn the win after Washington tied the game with three runs in the ninth inning. Valdez has now allowed one run or fewer in four of his last five outings, lowering his ERA to 2.27 with a 1.03 WHIP and 95:20 K:BB through 14 starts (91 innings) this season. The left-hander will look to keep rolling in his next outing, tentatively scheduled for next month against the Mets.
Jun 9 2023Valdez (6-5) took the loss Thursday, allowing three runs on four hits and four walks over five innings against the Blue Jays. He struck out five. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Valdez had his worst start in almost a month, as he had allowed just one run across his previous three appearances. However, the southpaw still has quality numbers for the season, posting a 2.36 ERA, 1.06 WHIP and 89 strikeouts, which ranks seventh in the league. The veteran is tentatively slated to face the Nationals at home in his next appearance.
Jun 2 2023Valdez (6-4) earned the win Friday over the Angels, allowing five hits and a walk while striking out seven over seven scoreless innings. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Valdez has been in peak form over his last three starts, allowing just one run across 22 innings in that span. He's earned a quality start in 10 of his 12 outings this season, including five of his six starts since the beginning of May. Valdez owns a 2.16 ERA, 1.03 WHIP and 84:16 K:BB over 79 innings and continues to serve as Houston's staff ace. He's projected for a road start in Toronto next week.
May 28 2023Valdez (5-4) picked up the win Saturday, allowing one run on four hits and three walks over six innings in a 6-3 victory over the A's. He struck out five. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The southpaw won his third straight decision while producing his ninth quality start in 11 trips to the mound this season -- not a surprising performance after he led the majors with 26 quality starts in 2022. Valdez was impressive in May, posting a 2.18 ERA, 0.91 WHIP and 40:7 K:BB over 33 innings, and he'll look to stay sharp in his next outing, likely to come at home next week against the Angels.
May 21 2023Valdez (4-4) earned the win Sunday, allowing four hits over nine scoreless innings against Oakland. He struck out seven. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Valdez made quick work of the Athletics on Sunday, holding them scoreless through nine innings on 104 pitches. The 29-year-old has been having a career year so far, with a 2.45 ERA, 1.03 WHIP and 9.82 K/9 through 10 starts (66.0 innings). Though Valdez hasn't been a strong contributor in the win column, fantasy managers should treat him as an elite fantasy option considering he ranks top 10 in ERA and strikeouts while leading MLB in innings pitched.
May 15 2023Valdez allowed four runs on seven hits and two walks in Monday's win over the Cubs. He struck out eight in four innings and did not factor in the decision. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Valdez got through three shutout frames before coughing up four in the fourth, including Christopher Morel's three-run shot. Valdez needed 91 pitches (53 strikes) in what ended up being his shortest outing of the year. His ERA jumped from 2.38 to 2.84, though he improved his K:BB to a strong 65:12 across nine starts. Valdez is currently lined up for a home start against Oakland this weekend.
May 9 2023Valdez (3-4) earned the win Tuesday, allowing one run on three hits over eight innings against the Angels. He struck out 12. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Valdez delivered his best outing of the season in a showdown with Shohei Ohtani. Valdez posted season highs in innings and strikeouts, punctuating the evening by sitting down Mike Trout on three pitches in the eighth. Valdez has been a tough-luck loser this season with four losses despite never allowing more than three runs. The Astros offense ranks 27th in OPS, giving Valdez less margin for error.
May 3 2023Valdez (2-4) took the loss Wednesday, allowing two runs on five hits and two walks over six innings in a 4-2 loss against the Giants. He struck out eight. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Valdez recorded his sixth consecutive quality start Wednesday, holding San Francisco to just a pair of runs in the sixth inning. However, the 29-year-old left-hander was ultimately out-dueled by Logan Webb in the 4-2 loss. Despite his losing record, Valdez has been excellent this season with a 2.60 ERA, 1.16 WHIP and 45:10 K:BB. He'll be counted on to continue anchoring Houston's rotation following injuries to Luis Garcia (elbow) and Jose Urquidy (shoulder).
Apr 29 2023Valdez (2-3) took the loss Friday, allowing three runs on eight hits over seven innings against the Phillies. He struck out three and did not walk a batter. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Valdez had another solid outing, but Houston's lack of run support turned it into an undeserved loss. The southpaw has not walked anyone in either of his last two starts, both of which lasted seven innings. The 29-year-old has generally been reliable, posting a 2.54 ERA and 1.15 WHIP to start off the year.
Apr 28 2023Valdez (2-3) took the loss Friday, allowing three runs on eight hits over seven innings against Philadelphia. He struck out three.
Apr 4 2023Valdez allowed three runs -- two earned -- on eight hits over seven innings in Tuesday's loss to Detroit. He walked one and struck out nine. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Valdez has pitched well in his first two starts of the season, but he hasn't been rewarded with a victory despite giving up a total of two runs in 12 innings (1.50 ERA.) The left-hander threw 66-of-103 pitches for strikes, and outside of Spencer Torkelson -- who drove in three in Tuesday's contest -- the Detroit lineup wasn't able to put much together. Valdez is scheduled to be back on the bump against the Pirates on Monday.
Mar 30 2023Valdez did not factor into the decision Thursday, allowing six hits and zero walks over five scoreless innings against the White Sox. He struck out four. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Valdez yielded six hits in the outing, but only one (a Tim Anderson double) went for extra bases. Last year's MLB leader in quality starts appeared on his way for another to begin 2023, but he was pulled after throwing 85 pitches across five innings. Nonetheless, this was a strong opening to the campaign for Valdez as he looks to put together a second straight All-Star season.
Mar 18 2023Valdez is likely to start for the Astros on Opening Day, Matt Young of the Houston Chronicle reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Manager Dusty Baker hasn't made an official announcement, but he did tell reporters Saturday that Valdez will "probably" take the mound on Opening Day. Valdez also drew the assignment in 2022, and he delivered throughout the season by posting an exceptional 2.82 ERA, 1.16 WHIP and 194:67 K:BB across 201.1 innings. Even if another Astros starter gets the call for the first game, Valdez will almost certainly start at some point during the team's opening series against the White Sox.
Feb 8 2023Astros general manager Dana Brown announced Wednesday that Valdez won't pitch for the Dominican Republic in the World Baseball Classic, Chandler Rome of the Houston Chronicle reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Valdez and the Astros agreed to have the southpaw sit out the WBC after he pitched a career-high 201.1 innings in 2022, nearly 65 more than his previous career high of 134.2 set in 2021. The 29-year-old was outstanding in his work with Houston last season, producing a 2.82 ERA, 194:67 K:BB and 1.15 WHIP. With Justin Verlander leaving for the Mets this offseason, Valdez should be in contention for the Astros' Opening Day nod.
Jan 13 2023Valdez signed a one-year, $6.8 million contract with the Astros on Friday, avoiding arbitration, Chandler Rome of the Houston Chronicle reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Coming off the heels of a 2.82 ERA, 1.16 WHIP season, Valdez earned himself a $3.8 million pay raise from last year after playing a big part in the Astros' title run. The 29-year-old southpaw has never been known to rack up strikeouts like other aces, though it's hard to argue with the results he's produced over the past few years.
Nov 5 2022Valdez pitched six innings and earned the win during Saturday's 4-1 victory over the Phillies in Game 6 of the World Series, allowing one run on two hits and two walks while striking out nine. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The only blemish on the night for Valdez came on a solo home run from Kyle Schwarber in the top of the sixth inning. The southpaw's sinker was electric in Game 6 -- of the nine outs from balls in play, his sinker forced six ground outs. The other nine outs came from strikeouts, the third consecutive game for Valdez with nine punchouts. The 28-year-old finished the postseason 3-0 with a stellar 1.44 ERA and 33 strikeouts across 25 innings. Valdez was arguably the best pitcher on the Houston staff and a major contributor to their postseason success.
Oct 29 2022Valdez pitched 6.1 innings and earned the win during Saturday's 5-2 win over the Phillies in Game 2 of the World Series, allowing one run on four hits and three walks while striking out nine. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Valdez gave the Astros a much-needed performance in Game 2, keeping the red-hot Phillies' lineup off the scoreboard until the seventh inning. The 28-year-old had great control with his curveball Saturday, and he recorded five of his nine K's via the breaking ball. Valdez has been outstanding in the playoffs -- he has allowed only three earned runs in 19 innings during the postseason while amassing 24 strikeouts. The southpaw finished the regular season at 17-6 with a 2.82 ERA, but he looks even better in the playoffs.
Oct 20 2022Valdez pitched seven innings and got the win Thursday night in Game 2 of the ALCS, allowing two unearned runs on four hits and zero walks while striking out nine during the 3-2 win over the Yankees. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Valdez had just one stressful inning Thursday night, which came in the fourth when he bobbled a comebacker from Giancarlo Stanton and compiled the mistake with a throwing error to first base. Two runs eventually scored in the inning, but the 28-year-old lefty was able to limit the damage by striking out Josh Donaldson and Kyle Higashioka, and he finished his outing by striking out the side in the seventh. The nine strikeouts were the most in a postseason game for Valdez since he recorded nine against the Rays in 2020. The southpaw owns a 1.48 postseason ERA and 15 strikeouts over 12.2 innings.
Oct 5 2022Valdez (17-6) earned the win Wednesday, allowing two hits and one walk over five shut-out innings against Philadelphia. He struck out 10. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Valdez was electric on Wednesday, running through hitters with a mix of curveballs, sinkers and cutters over the course of five innings. Eight of his 10 strikeouts were swinging, and he produced a total of 15 swinging strikes on the afternoon. It was a great bounce-back for Valdez after allowing 10 runs over his previous two starts. It was also just the second time since July 3 that that the left-hander recorded double-digit strikeouts in an outing.
Oct 1 2022Valdez (16-6) gave up six earned runs on nine hits and three walks while striking out two over 5.1 innings to take the loss in a 7-3 defeat against the Rays on Friday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Valdez struggled for his second start in a row after putting together an MLB-record 25 consecutive quality starts earlier in the season. The Rays made plenty of contact and Valdez gave up six earned runs in a game for only the second time this year. Nevertheless, 2022 has been a breakout campaign for Valdez who significantly upped his workload by pitching 196.1 innings to date with an ERA of 2.89. Depending on how the Astros decide to structure their rotation in the playoffs, the left-hander could be in line to make one last regular season start against the Phillies.
Sep 25 2022Valdez did not factor into the decision Saturday, allowing seven runs (four earned) on 11 hits and one walk over 5.1 innings against the Orioles. He struck out six. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Valdez allowed just three hits through the first three innings as the Astros jumped out to a 2-0 lead, but things began to unravel for him in the fourth after giving up back-to-back singles to lead off the inning. Rougned Odor later singled to drive in Adley Rutschman and Ramon Urias before Cedric Mullins topped off the inning with a two-run shot. Though the right-hander was charged with only four of the seven runs that came across while he was on the mound, it was still the first time all season that Valdez allowed more than three runs in a start. It also snapped his MLB single-season record of 25 straight quality starts.
Sep 18 2022Valdez (16-5) allowed two runs on four hits and a walk while striking out seven in six innings to earn the win over the Athletics on Sunday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Valdez tossed a complete-game shutout Monday against Detroit but threw just 87 pitches against Oakland on Sunday, marking just the second time that he hasn't thrown at least 100 pitches over his last 10 starts. However, the southpaw remained dominant and got plenty of run support from the Astros' offense to cruise to his seventh win over his last eight outings. Valdez has been incredibly consistent this season and set a major-league record Sunday by posting his 25th consecutive quality start. He tentatively lines up to make his next start on the road against Baltimore on Saturday.
Sep 12 2022Valdez (15-5) allowed six hits and a walk during a complete-game shutout Monday, striking out eight and earning a win over Detroit. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Aside from a small jam in the first inning, Valdez didn't face much of a threat during his dominant victory. The 28-year-old southpaw tosses 72 of 107 pitches for strikes and forced 16 whiffs. He allowed three or fewer earned runs for the 24th consecutive start and lowered his season ERA to a stellar 2.50 with a 169:61 K:BB through 179.2 frames. He's struck out at least eight batters in four straight outings. Valdez is scheduled to start in Tampa Bay next week.
Sep 6 2022Valdez (14-5) took the loss Tuesday, allowing four runs (two earned) on six hits and four walks over 6.2 innings against the Rangers. He struck out 11. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The Astros uncharacteristically committed three errors Tuesday, causing two unearned runs to score against Valdez on the night. The southpaw allowed four walks for the second time in three starts but was mostly effective, as he recorded double-digit strikeouts for the second time this season and likely would have completed seven innings if not for the errors. Valdez has remarkably thrown 23 straight quality starts. He will carry a 2.64 ERA into his next start.
Aug 31 2022Valdez (14-4) allowed two earned runs on seven hits and no walks while striking out eight across eight innings to earn the win Tuesday against the Rangers. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Valdez continued to build on his franchise record by recording his 22nd consecutive quality start. He surrendered a pair of solo home runs, but otherwise kept the Rangers in check. Valdez's key to success is typically groundball outs, but he has at least eight strikeouts in three of his last four starts -- aided by the fact that he's worked at least seven innings in each of those outings. For the season, he now owns a 2.63 ERA, 1.12 WHIP and 150:46 K:BB across 164 frames.
Aug 24 2022Valdez (13-4) picked up the win over Minnesota on Wednesday, allowing one run on two hits and four walks while striking out eight batters over seven innings. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Valdez was a bit wild with four walks, but he surrendered only two base hits and completed seven innings for the third straight outing. He finished with his 21st consecutive quality start, surpassing the franchise record set by Mike Scott in 1986. Valdez has earned a win in five of his past six appearances, and he's already established a career-best mark with 13 victories on the campaign. The southpaw doesn't typically post huge strikeout numbers and has issued at lest three passes in three of his past four starts, but he keeps rolling along as one of the game's most consistently effective starting pitchers.
Aug 17 2022Valdez (12-4) earned the win over the White Sox on Wednesday, completing seven innings and allowing two runs on seven hits and three walks while striking out six batters. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Valdez was tagged for a pair of runs in the fourth inning, but he was otherwise able to keep Chicago off the scoreboard. The left-hander didn't have his best stuff -- he walked three batters and allowed at least one baserunner in six of his seven frames -- yet he succeeded by keeping the ball on the ground, inducing three double plays. Valdez ended up with his 20th straight quality start, tying the franchise record set by Mike Scott in 1986, per Chandler Rome of the Houston Chronicle. Valdez isn't the flashiest starting pitcher in fantasy, but he's undoubtedly among the most consistent.
Aug 11 2022Valdez (11-4) earned the win Thursday over Texas, striking out eight in seven scoreless innings while allowing four hits, a walk and a hit batsman. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: All four hits against Valdez were singles, and he managed to pitch around trouble in the third and seventh innings to hold the Rangers scoreless. At one point, he retired 11 straight batters. The 28-year-old has now thrown a quality start in 19 straight appearances. He's posted a 2.73 ERA and allowed just seven homers in 142 innings this year. His next start will likely be in the middle of next week against the White Sox.
Aug 6 2022Valdez (10-4) picked up the win in Friday's 9-3 victory over the Guardians, giving up three runs on seven hits and three walks over 6.1 innings. He struck out three. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: It wasn't a dominant effort by the southpaw, but Valdez still delivered a quality start in an incredible 18th straight trip to the mound -- putting him two QS shy of Mike Scott's franchise record of 20 straight, set in 1986. Valdez will take a 2.87 ERA, 1.15 WHIP and 120:48 K:BB through 135 innings into his next outing.
Jul 31 2022Valdez gave up three earned runs on five hits and a walk while striking out seven over seven innings in a 5-4 loss to the Mariners on Saturday. He did not factor into the decision. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Valdez found success by leaning heavily on his groundball-inducing sinker, throwing the pitch 36 percent of the time. He garnered two double plays in the contest to give him seventeen total on the year. Valdez has been solid all season long and leads the majors with 18 quality starts after stringing together a remarkable 15 quality starts in a row. Look for Valdez to take the mound next week in Cleveland.
Jul 24 2022Valdez (9-4) earned the win Sunday over the Mariners. He allowed three runs on eight hits and a walk with eight strikeouts in 6.2 innings. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Valdez kept the Mariners off the board through six innings, but they were able to get to him in the seventh. The All-Star break didn't slow down the southpaw, who has now posted 16 straight quality starts. The eight strikeouts were also his second-highest total of the year. Valdez owns a 2.74 ERA, 1.14 WHIP and 110:44 K:BB through 121.2 innings in 19 starts. He's projected for a home rematch with the Mariners next weekend.
Jul 14 2022Valdez allowed two runs on six hits, three walks and a hit batter while striking out six over six innings in a no-decision versus the Angels on Thursday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Valdez was a little shaky with command, issuing a bases-loaded walk in the third inning and allowing a run to score on a passed ball in the fourth. He also threw a wild pitch. Despite those obvious mistakes, he was able to post his 15th consecutive quality start. He's now gone three starts without a win. Valdez owns a 2.66 ERA, 1.13 WHIP and 102:43 K:BB across 115 innings in 18 starts overall. He's done well to limit runs and pitch deep into games, which earned him a trip to the All-Star Game in Los Angeles next week.
Jul 10 2022Valdez (8-4) took the loss to the Athletics on Saturday, allowing three runs (two earned) on four hits while striking out three and walking two across eight innings. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Although he took the loss, Valdez pitched well Saturday, allowing two earned runs across eight frames while throwing 60 of 96 pitches for strikes. The game-tying run against the righty came on a passed ball, and the go-ahead run came on a wild pitch. Saturday's appearance was Valdez's 14th quality start in a row and his 15th of the year. He will take a 2.64 ERA into his next outing.
Jul 3 2022Valdez didn't factor into the decision during Sunday's 4-2 victory over the Angels, allowing two runs on three hits and five walks with 13 strikeouts. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Valdez brought his strikeout stuff Sunday, though that led to control issues as the 13 strikeouts and five walks were both season highs. At one point, the 28-year-old recorded 12 straight outs via strikeout during an erratic span that also featured all five walks and both runs on his ledger. The impressive performance continues a string of 13 consecutive quality starts, and Valdez now sits alone atop the MLB leaderboard with 14. He lines up to take the mound again next weekend on the road against Oakland.
Jun 28 2022Valdez (8-3) earned the victory Tuesday against the Mets, striking out five in eight shutout innings while allowing six hits and two walks. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: In a typical outing for Valdez, the lefty retired 12 batters on ground balls and induced two double-plays. It was the 12th straight time he's tossed at least six innings in a start. For June, the 28-year-old compiled a 2.81 ERA and 31:11 K:BB in 32 innings.
Jun 27 2022Valdez is listed as the Astros' starting pitcher for Tuesday's series opener in New York against the Mets, Chandler Rome of the Houston Chronicle reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Luis Garcia was initially in line to start the Astros' first game of the week, but he's instead been pushed back two days in the schedule to start the team's standalone game against the Yankees in Houston on Thursday. With Valdez moving up a day in the pitching schedule as a result of the adjustment, he'll now be on tap for a two-start week. His second turn is expected to come Sunday at home against the Angels.
Jun 23 2022Valdez allowed three runs on two hits and three walks with seven strikeouts in six innings in a no-decision versus the Yankees on Thursday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Three of the five baserunners Valdez allowed were in the first inning, which saw him yield a three-run home run to Giancarlo Stanton. The southpaw settled in well after that, but Ryan Pressly blew the save to deny Valdez the win. He'll remain at a 7-3 record with a 2.90 ERA, 1.13 WHIP and 75:31 K:BB across 87 innings in 14 starts this year. The 28-year-old has logged 11 straight quality starts and will look to make it a dozen next week in a projected road start versus the Mets.
Jun 18 2022Valdez (7-3) earned the win against the White Sox on Friday, going six innings and allowing three runs on eight hits while striking out seven and walking none. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Valdez continued a dominant season on Friday, earning his 11th quality start of the year and his 10th in a row. He was efficient, throwing 66 of 91 pitches for strikes. Although he did allow eight hits in the game, Valdez was able to limit the damage to three runs and benefitted from an offensive explosion from his own team. The lefty will carry a 2.78 ERA into his next outing.
Jun 11 2022Valdez (6-3) took the loss Saturday versus the Marlins, allowing four runs (two earned) on four hits and three walks with six strikeouts in six innings. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The Marlins were able to take advantage of some sloppy defense in the second inning to piece together a three-run rally. Only one of the four runs on Valdez's line came directly off a hit -- a groundout, a fielder's choice and a walk accounted for the others. With this loss, the southpaw saw his five-start winning streak end. He has a 2.64 ERA, 1.13 WHIP and 61:28 K:BB through 75 innings in 12 starts this year. Valdez is projected for a home start versus the White Sox next week.
Jun 5 2022Valdez (6-2) earned the win Sunday over the Royals. He allowed two runs on four hits and three walks with five strikeouts in six innings. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Valdez didn't give up any runs until his last inning, yielding a two-run home run to Salvador Perez. This was Valdez's fifth straight win, and he's only allowed multiple runs in two of those outings. The southpaw has a 2.61 ERA, 1.13 WHIP and 55:25 K:BB across 69 innings in 11 starts this year. He lines up for a home start versus the Marlins next weekend.
May 30 2022Valdez (5-2) earned the win Monday after he tossed a complete game, giving up one run on two hits and three walks while striking out seven against the Athletics. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Valdez was very effective Monday, notching 75 strikes on 115 pitches while tossing a season-high nine innings. The only blemish against him came in the bottom of the sixth frame when Ramon Laureano ripped an RBI single. Valdez has now compiled seven consecutive quality starts, producing a 2.02 ERA and 1.00 WHIP with 38 strikeouts over that stretch. He'll look to keep the streak going when he toes the rubber next, tentatively lining up to face the Royals on Sunday.
May 24 2022Valdez (4-2) got the win Tuesday after he tossed seven innings, surrendering three runs on seven hits while striking out four versus the Guardians. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Valdez gave up a solo home run to Jose Ramirez in the first inning before later surrendering one run in both the sixth and seventh frames. The outing was his sixth consecutive quality start and third outing in a row where he tossed at least seven innings. The 28-year-old also avoided walking a batter for the first time in 2022. Outside of one poor outing versus the Angels on April 19 where he allowed six runs in 4.1 innings, Valdez has been dominant this season, giving up three or fewer runs in eight starts. He owns a 2.83 ERA and 1.22 WHIP with 43 strikeouts over 54 frames this year.
May 19 2022Valdez (3-2) allowed one earned run on six hits and two walks while striking out seven to earn the win Thursday against the Rangers. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Valdez surrendered his lone earned run in the first inning. From there, he allowed only three runners to reach scoring position while turning in his fifth consecutive quality start. While Valdez has only 39 strikeouts across 47 innings this season, he has maintained a 65.7 percent groundball rate. The end result has been a 2.68 ERA.
May 13 2022Valdez improved to 2-2 on the season Friday against the Nationals, allowing one run on seven hits across 7.2 innings while striking out six and walking a pair. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Valdez was handed a 5-0 lead before he stepped onto the mound and never looked likely to let Washington back in the game. He didn't allow a baserunner with less than two outs until the sixth inning, when a leadoff single from Juan Soto was quickly countered by a double play. He finally ran into trouble in the seventh inning, giving up a run on a fielder's choice after allowing the first two batters to reach base safely, but that wasn't enough to make it anything but a very strong outing for Valdez, who now owns a 2.93 ERA. He'll look to lower that mark Thursday against the Rangers.
May 8 2022Valdez allowed two earned runs on nine hits and one walk while striking out seven across six innings Saturday against the Tigers. He did not factor into the decision. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Valdez allowed multiple hits in each of the first three innings and was consistently working out of trouble. However, he limited the Tigers to only two runs, in large part due to nine groundball outs and a season-best seven strikeouts. Valdez has suppressed scoring very well to begin the campaign, as he's allowed two or fewer earned runs in four of his six starts. He owns a 3.34 ERA and 1.30 WHIP with an underwhelming 26:15 K:BB across 32.1 innings this season.
May 1 2022Valdez (1-2) allowed three runs on two hits and two walks while striking out two in 6.1 innings to take the loss in Sunday's game against the Blue Jays. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Valdez has now posted three quality starts in his first five outings this season, but the Astros were unable to generate much offensive production in Sunday's 3-2 loss. The southpaw completed five scoreless frames to begin the game but gave up three runs in the sixth and seventh prior to his removal. However, Valdez threw 101 pitches in the defeat and now has a 3.42 ERA and 1.22 WHIP in 26.1 innings this year. He tentatively lines up to start Saturday's game against the Tigers at home.
Apr 26 2022Valdez allowed one run (none earned) on four hits and two walks while striking out five across six innings Monday against the Rangers. He did not factor into the decision. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Valdez was regularly in danger in the latter half of his start, as he allowed multiple hitters to reach base in each of his final three frames. However, he induced 10 groundball outs to work around the traffic on the basepaths and turn in an effective outing. Though Valdez has maintained a 3.15 ERA across 20 innings to begin the season, he has now walked multiple batters in each of his last three starts -- something he will need to improve upon to remain effective.
Apr 19 2022Valdez (1-1) took the loss after allowing six runs on eight hits and four walks with three strikeouts in 4.1 innings in Tuesday's 7-2 loss against the Angels. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Valdez allowed a run each in the second and fourth inning and was able to limit the damage thanks to a double-play and an outfield assist. He retired Shohei Ohtani to start the fifth but then gave up four consecutive singles and was replaced. Following an excellent Opening Day start, the 28-year-old has struggled over his next two starts, allowing 20 baserunners and seven runs in just 7.1 innings. His next start is scheduled for Sunday in Texas.
Apr 13 2022Valdez allowed a run on two hits and five walks in three innings while striking out three in a 3-2 loss Wednesday in Arizona. He did not factor into the decision. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Four of Valdez's five walks were on four pitches and he also hit a batter as he struggled with his command all day. He needed 75 pitches to get through three innings. The 28-year-old has averaged 4.0 BB/9 for his career, so Wednesday's struggles are nothing new. His next start is likely early next week against the Angels.
Apr 8 2022Valdez (1-0) allowed two hits and one walk while striking out six across 6.2 scoreless innings to earn the win Thursday against the Angels. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Many pitchers will struggle this week to work deep into their first starts after a shortened spring training, but Valdez was incredibly efficient and put together a dominant outing. His method to get there was familiar, as he induced nine groundball outs, though he also racked up 11 swinging strikes on 84 total pitches. Valdez has put together two consecutive seasons with an ERA below 3.60, and his first start of the 2022 campaign makes those results look attainable once again.
Apr 2 2022Valdez, who was scheduled to pitch in Saturday's Grapefruit League game against the Cardinals, will now pitch in a minor-league game on the back fields, Chandler Rome of the Houston Chronicle reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Due to the threat of inclement weather Saturday, the Astros will alter Valdez's pitching plans to make sure that he's able to get some work in. The southpaw has been named the starter for Thursday's Opening Day matchup against the Angels, so Saturday's outing should serve as a final tune-up ahead of the regular season. Brandon Bielak will now serve as the starter in Saturday's Grapefruit League game.
Mar 30 2022Valdez will start the Astros' Opening Day matchup against the Angels on April 7, Chandler Rome of the Houston Chronicle reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Although Justin Verlander is healthy after re-signing with the Astros during the offseason, Valdez will take the mound during the first game of the season, followed by Jake Odorizzi and Verlander. In his first spring start, Valdez struck out three in three scoreless innings. The southpaw made 22 starts for Houston last year and recorded a 3.14 ERA and 1.25 WHIP in 134.2 innings.
Mar 22 2022Valdez signed one-year, $3 million contract with the Astros on Tuesday to avoid arbitration, Kiley McDaniel of ESPN.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: It's a solid figures for Valdez's first year of arbitration eligibility, which isn't a major surprise given he delivered a 3.14 ERA, 1.25 WHIP and 125:58 K:BB across 134.2 innings (22 starts) last season. The 28-year-old will once again be a major piece of Houston's starting rotation in 2022.
Oct 27 2021Valdez (0-1) allowed five runs on eight hits and a walk while striking out two in two innings to take the loss against Atlanta in Game 1 of the World Series on Tuesday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Valdez gave up a leadoff home run to begin Tuesday's contest, and he continued to struggle throughout his outing. He allowed three runs across the first two innings and gave up a two-run homer with no outs in the third inning prior to his removal. The 27-year-old had allowed just four runs (three earned) in 10.2 innings across his last two appearances, and he tentatively lines up to make his next start on the road Sunday in Game 5.
Oct 24 2021Valdez will start Game 1 of the World Series against Atlanta on Tuesday, Chandler Rome of the Houston Chronicle reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Valdez pitched eight excellent frames in Game 5 of the ALCS versus Boston, and he'll take the mound in the first game of the World Series for Houston. The left-hander has a 4.20 ERA, 1.40 WHIP and 13:5 K:BB through three starts (15 innings) this postseason.
Oct 21 2021Valdez picked up the win with an excellent outing in Game 5 of the ALCS against Boston on Wednesday, allowing just one run on three hits and a walk while striking out five across eight innings. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: A recurring theme throughout the postseason has been starters failing to pitch deep into games, sometimes by design but often due to poor performance. Valdez contributed to that in his previous outings, lasting a combined seven innings in his first two playoff starts, but he did everything the Astros could have wanted this time around. The only blemish on his record was a solo shot by Rafael Devers in the seventh inning, but all that did was shrink the Astros' lead from seven to six. Valdez won't be lined up to start again this series, but it's possible he's available out of the bullpen for Game 7 on Saturday if the series goes the distance.
Oct 16 2021Valdez allowed three runs (two earned) on six hits and three walks while striking out two in 2.2 innings in Friday's win over the Red Sox in Game 1 of the ALCS. He didn't factor into the decision. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Valdez began Friday's contest by tossing two scoreless frames, but he was removed from the game after Boston put together a rally in the top of the third inning. The southpaw has now posted a 7.71 ERA and 2.43 WHIP in seven innings across his first two starts in the postseason. He tentatively lines up to make his next start on the road in Game 5.
Oct 14 2021Valdez will start Game 1 of the ALCS against the Red Sox on Friday, Chandler Rome of the Houston Chronicle reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Valdez settled for a no-decision in Game 2 of the ALDS against the White Sox on Friday when he allowed four runs on seven hits and a walk while striking out six in 4.1 innings. The southpaw will attempt to get back on track at home in the first game of the ALCS.
Oct 8 2021Valdez allowed four runs on seven hits and a walk while striking out six in 4.1 innings during Friday's win over the White Sox in Game 2 of the ALDS. He didn't factor into the decision. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Valdez loaded the bases with one out in the first inning before allowing the first run of the game to come across, and he gave up three more runs in the fifth frame prior to his removal. The lefty threw just 69 pitches (43 strikes) in the outing but avoided the loss since the Astros put together a late comeback. The Astros now have a 2-0 lead in the ALDS, and Valdez's next start will likely come in the ALCS if the team advances.
Oct 5 2021Valdez will start Game 2 of the ALDS against the White Sox on Friday, Brian McTaggart of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Valdez stumbled slightly in September, allowing four runs in three of his five starts that month, though it would be unfair to say he enters the playoffs in a true slump, as his 3.94 ERA over the course of the month is a perfectly respectable number. He'll follow Lance McCullers, who starts Game 1. Both starters would be on full rest if the series stretches to five games, so it's possible both could pitch twice in the series if necessary.
Oct 1 2021Valdez (11-6) took the loss in Friday's 8-6 defeat at the hands of the Athletics, allowing four runs on four hits and one walk with seven strikeouts in five innings. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Valdez was staked to an early lead but surrendered one run apiece in the third and fourth innings and two in the sixth before departing to fall in line for the loss. The 27-year-old has now permitted four runs in three of his last five starts and concludes the 2021 season with an 11-6 record across 22 starts with a 3.14 ERA, 1.25 WHIP and 125:58 K:BB in 134.2 innings pitched.
Sep 30 2021Valdez will start Friday's game against Oakland, Brian McTaggart of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: It was originally expected that Brandon Bielak would draw the start, but Houston is now likely focused on setting up its rotation for the postseason. Valdez will head into his final start of the regular season with a 2.98 ERA and 1.26 WHIP while also tallying 118 strikeouts across 129.2 frames. Jake Odorizzi and Jose Urquidy are lined up to start Saturday and Sunday, respectively.
Sep 26 2021Valdez didn't factor into the decision in Saturday's 2-1 loss to the A's, allowing one run on three hits and four walks over 6.2 innings. He struck out three. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The 27-year-old was locked in a scoreless pitcher's duel with fellow lefty Sean Manaea through six innings, but after Kyle Tucker gave the Astros the lead in the top of the seventh with a solo shot, Valdez gave up a single to Khris Davis and hit Elvis Andrus with a pitch to get the hook after 95 pitches (52 strikes). Unfortunately, Kendall Graveman promptly allowed an inherited runner to score, costing Valdez his shot at the win. The quality start was his 13th of the year in only 21 outings, and he'll take a 2.98 ERA, 1.26 WHIP and 118:57 through 129.2 innings into his final start of the regular season next weekend.
Sep 21 2021Valdez (11-5) earned the win Monday against the Angels after tossing seven scoreless innings, allowing six hits and three walks while fanning six. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Valdez was coming off two straight outings in which he allowed four earned runs in each, but he bounced back admirably here and delivered his fifth quality start over eight appearances since the beginning of August. The southpaw owns a 3.16 ERA across 51.1 innings in that span.
Sep 19 2021Valdez (finger) will start Monday's game against the Angels, Danielle Lerner of the Houston Chronicle reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Valdez was considered questionable to start Monday while recovering from a cut on the index finger of his left hand, but he'll rejoin the rotation after being scratched from Thursday's scheduled start. The 27-year-old has a 3.26 ERA, 1.27 WHIP and 109:50 K:BB across 116 innings this season.
Sep 17 2021Valdez (finger) may not take the ball for Monday's start against the Angels, Danielle Lerner of the Houston Chronicle reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: It was previously reported that Valdez was in line to start Monday after being scratched from his Thursday start, but manager Dusty Baker did not commit to that plan when asked Friday. That being said, so long as the left-hander comes out of Friday's throwing session with no problems, he should be good to toe the rubber in Monday's series opener.
Sep 16 2021Valdez (finger) is in line to start Monday's game against the Angels, Chandler Rome of the Houston Chronicle reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Valdez was scratched from his start Thursday due to a cut on his index finger. The issue isn't expected to cause a stint on the injured list, though he'll have to wait for the Astros' next series to retake the mound.
Sep 10 2021Valdez (10-5) allowed four earned runs on six hits and five walks while striking out six across five innings, getting the win over the Angels on Friday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Although Valdez received the win, he allowed 11 total baserunners including five walks for just the third time this season. In addition, he surrendered a home run to Shohei Ohtani and Jared Walsh. He broke his streak of six straight outings of six plus innings pitched. The 27-year-old has a 3.26 ERA and 1.27 WHIP with 109 strikeouts in 116 innings this season.
Sep 5 2021Valdez (9-5) took the loss against San Diego on Saturday, allowing four runs on six hits and two walks while striking out four over six innings. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: All four runs against the southpaw came in the second inning, during which the Padres tallied four hits and got help from Valdez, who hit two batters and committed a balk that resulted in a run. Though he was able to complete six frames, the rough second inning resulted in Valdez's streak of four straight quality starts coming to an end. Still, it has been a strong campaign for the 27-year-old, who leads Houston starters with a 3.08 ERA while notching nine wins. He's expected to make his next start at home against the Angels on Friday.
Aug 28 2021Valdez (9-4) earned the win Saturday against Texas, yielding two runs on three hits and a walk over seven innings. He struck out seven. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: It was the fourth consecutive quality start for Valdez, who limited the Rangers to a Nick Solak RBI groundout in the fourth inning and an Adolis Garcia solo home run in the sixth. The Garcia blast was the first longball allowed by Valdez since July 18, ending a string of six straight outings in which he was able to keep the ball in the park. Valdez will take a 2.94 ERA and 1.27 WHIP into his next start, tentatively scheduled for next week at San Diego.
Aug 22 2021Valdez yielded three hits and a walk over seven scoreless innings in Sunday's loss to Seattle. He struck out six and did not factor in the decision. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Valdez was terrific Sunday, allowing just one Mariner to reach scoring position while giving up just three singles and a walk. He was in line for his ninth win of the year before Houston's bullpen allowed six runs over four frames in the extra-innings loss. It was his first scoreless outing since July 24 and he lowered his season ERA to 2.94 through 98 innings. Valdez is projected to face the Rangers on the road next weekend.
Aug 17 2021Valdez (8-4) took the loss against Kansas City on Tuesday, pitching 6.2 innings and allowing three runs on nine hits and one walk while striking out five. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The nine hits allowed by Valdez were his second most in a game this season, but he still managed to notch his second straight quality start. The southpaw surrendered only one run through five innings before a single off the bat of Hanser Alberto in the sixth provided a pair of decisive runs and sent Valdez to his fourth loss of the campaign. He'll carry a 3.16 ERA into his next start, which is tentatively scheduled for Sunday at home versus Seattle.
Aug 11 2021Valdez (8-3) allowed a run on four hits and four walks while striking out eight in six innings to earn the win over Colorado on Wednesday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The southpaw continues to walk far too many batters, as he's issued at least two free passes in each of his last eight starts, but he was able to pitch around them Wednesday. Valdez lowered his ERA to 3.09 with a 1.30 WHIP and 81:40 K:BB through 84.1 innings. He'll look to keep up the solid work in Kansas City next week.
Aug 5 2021Valdez (6-3) lost Thursday's 5-3 game at the hands of the Twins, allowing four runs on six hits and three walks with seven strikeouts in 6.2 innings. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Valdez pitched well aside from a tumultuous second inning where he allowed five of nine baserunners and all four runs, but Houston was unable to overcome the early deficit. The four runs surrendered tie for the second most in any of Valdez's 13 starts and Houston is 9-4 in games where the lefty toes the rubber.
Jul 31 2021Valdez (7-2) allowed two runs on four hits and three walks while striking out six over five innings to pick up the win over the Giants on Friday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Valdez appeared to have solved his command issues early in the game, setting down the first seven batters on 22 pitches, but the rest of the third inning became a grind. He walked the eighth batter, Thairo Estrada, after getting ahead 1-2, then issued a four-pitch walk to pitcher Kevin Gausman. Both scored to tie the game, and Valdez expended 36 pitches in the inning. The left-hander was gone after five frames and 89 pitches but earned his second straight win. Since July 1, Valdez has walked 24 batters in 33.1 innings. His next turn comes Thursday, the kickoff to a four-game set at home against the Twins.
Jul 25 2021Valdez (6-2) took the win over Texas on Saturday, pitching six scoreless and hitless innings while walking six and striking out four. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The southpaw dominated when he was able to get the ball over the plate, as Texas batters did not manage to notch a single hit against him. However, Valdez issued six walks and hurled 99 pitches through six frames, so he was unable to stick around long enough to go after a no-hitter. Still, it was an impressive bounceback performance for Valdez, who entered the game having given up 11 earned runs over his previous 15.1 innings. He's tentatively expected to make his next start at San Francisco on Friday.
Jul 18 2021Valdez (5-2) allowed four runs on seven hits and two walks while striking out four over 6.1 innings to take the loss to the White Sox on Sunday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Valdez had the unenviable task of dueling with Carlos Rodon, who one-hit the Astros over seven sterling innings. For Valdez, it was an encouraging outing after the left-hander walked 13 batters over the final 16 innings of the first half. That run made him examine his mechanics during the All-Star break, and he concluded that he was rushing his delivery in an effort to be perfect on each pitch, per Chandler Rome of the Houston Chronicle reports. Valdez threw 64 of his 97 pitches for strikes and induced a lot of weak contact, but Rodon was not going to be beat Sunday. Valdez lines up to pitch next Saturday at home against the Rangers.
Jul 11 2021Valdez allowed three runs (two earned) on six walks and six hits over four innings in Sunday's win over the Yankees. He struck out five and did not factor in the decision. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The Astros walked 14 Yankees on Sunday, including Valdez setting a new season high with six. He coughed up a solo homer to Tim Locastro in the fourth inning and gave up a run in the fifth after allowing the first three batters to reach base without recording an out. After a strong start to his season, the 27-year-old lefty has given up 14 earned runs with a 28:15 K:BB over his last five outings, raising his season ERA to 2.98. Valdez maintained his 5-1 record despite the shaky performance.
Jul 7 2021Valdez allowed six runs (five earned) on 10 hits and two walks while striking out six over five innings but walked away with a no-decision against the Athletics on Tuesday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The A's ambushed Valdez for three runs in each of the first two innings. No other team has been able to hit Valdez that way, as he entered the game with a 2.18 ERA, a run of six straight quality starts and not having allowed more than three runs in a game. Thankfully, Houston's offense showed up and prevented his second loss of the season. The left-hander looks to return to his previous form in his next start, which lines up to be Sunday against the Yankees.
Jul 2 2021Valdez (5-1) allowed two runs on four hits and five walks while striking out six over seven innings to pick up the win over Cleveland on Thursday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Valdez walked a season-high five batters and was tested early in the contest before settling in and saving Houston's bullpen. The second inning was most pivotal, as Valdez walked three batters, gave up a single and allowed a runner to score on a wild pitch. With the bases loaded and one out, he bore down and got the final two batters. Back-to-back doubles with one out in the third increased Cleveland's lead to 2-0, but Valdez then faced the minimum number of batters and got through seven innings without further damage. The left-hander takes a string of five consecutive quality starts and a 2.18 ERA into his next start, projected for Wednesday at home against the Athletics.
Jun 27 2021Valdez (4-1) allowed three runs on six hits and struck out six over six innings and was tagged with the loss to the Tigers in the first game of Saturday's doubleheader. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Valdez continued to impress, throwing a fifth straight quality start, but he got little support from Houston's lineup. The Astros entered the game on an offensive roll but managed just six singles off Detroit right-hander Casey Mize. The left-hander, who threw 86 pitches, could have pitched into the seventh inning for a fifth straight start, but MLB's decision to play seven-inning doubleheaders precluded that. Valdez's next turn through the rotation is due Thursday, July 1.
Jun 25 2021Valdez's scheduled Friday start against the Tigers has been postponed due to rain, Chandler Rome of the Houston Chronicle reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The game will be made up as part of a split doubleheader Saturday, and per Rome, Valdez and Lance McCullers will start the two ends of the twin bill. Valdez will enter that outing with a four-start win streak and a tidy 1.67 ERA.
Jun 19 2021Valdez (4-0) allowed three runs (two earned) on six hits and two walks while striking out five across seven innings, earning the win against the White Sox on Saturday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Valdez gave up just two extra-base hits Saturday that led to both of his earned runs scoring. One was a third-inning double by Yoan Moncada and the other was a solo home run in the seventh inning by Andrew Vaughn. The 27-year-old has been stellar in the month of June since missing the first two months of the season with a fractured finger. He hasn't lost in five starts and he carries a 1.67 ERA and a 0.99 WHIP in 32.1 innings.
Jun 13 2021Valdez (3-0) allowed two runs (one earned) on five hits and three walks over seven innings Sunday, striking out three and earning a win over the Twins. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Valdez kept Minnesota's bats quiet for most of the contest with the exception of Ryan Jeffers' solo homer in the fifth. The 27-year-old lefty has given up exactly one earned run in each of his four starts this season, going 3-0 with a 24:7 K:BB and a 1.42 ERA. He'll look to keep the winning streak alive against the White Sox at home next weekend.
Jun 8 2021Valdez (2-0) picked up the win Tuesday after holding the Red Sox to one run on five hits and no walks while striking out eight across 7.1 innings. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Making his third start since coming off the injured list with a broken left finger, Valdez yielded one run to the Red Sox for the second straight time during his longest outing of the season thus far. The only damage of the night for the 27-year-old came from an RBI groundout off the bat of Hunter Renfroe. Valdez was otherwise brilliant while gaining ample run support from his offense. After a breakout 2020 campaign, the southpaw posted a 1.88 ERA and 26:10 K:BB over 24 playoff innings and is poised for another solid season. He's slated to get his next chance on the mound Sunday at Minnesota.
Jun 2 2021Valdez (1-0) allowed one earned run on five hits and two walks while striking out 10 across seven innings, earning the win over the Red Sox on Wednesday, ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Valdez struggled in the first inning, allowing two singles and walking in a run. However, he settled in delivering six scoreless innings on just three singles. This was a great start for the 27-year-old, who has pitched just 11 innings this season after missing extended time with a fractured finger. He has 14 strikeouts and a 1.64 ERA through two starts. He'll get another go at Boston's lineup next Tuesday.
May 29 2021Valdez allowed one run on two hits and two walks while striking out four over four innings in a no-decision against San Diego on Friday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Valdez made his season debut after suffering a fractured finger during spring training. He executed all of his pitches, relying heavily on his sinker and curveball while throwing 72 pitches (40 strikes). That was right at his pitch limit for the night, per Brian McTaggart of MLB.com. It's natural the Astros wouldn't want to push him immediately, and the left-hander is expected to get deeper into games as he builds arm strength. His next opportunity is scheduled for Wednesday at home against Boston.
May 28 2021Valdez (finger) was activated from the 10-day injured list ahead of Friday's start against the Padres, Brian McTaggart of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Valdez will make his season debut against San Diego after he suffered a fractured ring finger in spring training. He'll take the rotation spot of Lance McCullers (shoulder), who was placed on the 10-day injured list Wednesday.
May 26 2021The Astros plan to activate Valdez (finger) from the 10-day injured list and have him start Friday's game against the Padres, Danielle Lerner of the Houston Chronicle reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Houston will get two starters back from the IL this weekend, as Jake Odorizzi (forearm) will be reinstated ahead of Saturday's game. Valdez, meanwhile, will take the rotation spot that belonged to Lance McCullers, who was placed on the IL on Wednesday with a sore shoulder that manager Dusty Baker believes is a short-term concern. The Astros will have some tough decisions to make with their rotation once McCullers is back in the fold, but Valdez should be in good shape to hold down a permanent spot after he delivered a 3.57 ERA, 1.12 WHIP and 76 strikeouts in 70.2 innings in 2020. The 27-year-old looked like he would be at risk of missing most of 2021 when he fractured the ring finger on his throwing hand in spring training, but he progressed more rapidly in his recovery than expected and was able to build up for starting duty in just under three months. Valdez covered four innings and tossed 54 pitches in his final rehab start for Triple-A Sugar Land on Sunday, so he could be capped at around 75 pitches in his season debut for Houston.
May 24 2021Valdez (finger) allowed two hits and two walks while striking out two over four scoreless innings for Triple-A Sugar Land on Sunday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Valdez, who made his second rehab start, didn't have the control that he had during his first rehab outing, throwing 29 of 54 pitches for strikes. Last Monday, he delivered 38 strikes among his 47 offerings. The left-hander is targeted for a return sometime during June, Steve Schaeffer of the Houston Chronicle reports. Valdez will have his pitch count built up before then, meaning at least one more rehab start.
May 23 2021Valdez (finger) had his rehab start Saturday at Triple-A Sugar Land rained out. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: This was to be Valdez's second rehab start, and he was scheduled to throw about 65 pitches. Jake Odorizzi (forearm) had been scheduled to follow Valdez in Sugar Land's rotation -- making his second rehab start Sunday -- but the Skeeters have not announced rotation plans in light of the rainout. Both pitchers will get their starts in whether that be Sunday or as part of a doubleheader Monday.
May 19 2021Valdez (finger) will make another rehab start Saturday for Triple-A Sugar Land, Chandler Rome of the Houston Chronicle reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Valdez continues his quicker-than-expected rehab from a fractured finger on his pitching hand. The lefty will likely still require multiple additional rehab starts to build up for starting MLB games, but the lack of setbacks has been a promising sign for Valdez and his return, which figures to come in early June.
May 14 2021Valdez (finger) will throw three innings in a rehab start for Triple-A Sugar Land on Friday, Chandler Rome of the Houston Chronicle reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Valdez's fractured left ring finger was at one point worried to be a season-ending injury, but it looks as though he's on track to miss significantly less than half of the campaign. A three-inning appearance Friday would likely leave him two or three rehab starts away from returning to the active roster, placing his probable return sometime in early June.
May 13 2021Valdez (finger) will throw a bullpen session Friday and head out on a minor-league rehab assignment thereafter, Brian McTaggart of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Valdez is making rapid progress in his recovery from a fractured left ring finger, an injury the Astros initially feared would sideline him for the majority of the season. He's now nearing the final phase of his rehab program, but Valdez will presumably need at least two or three rehab starts to build up to a starter's workload, so his return to the Astros could still be close to a month away. Whenever he makes his return, Valdez will give a significant lift to the Houston rotation, coming off a season in which he compiled a 3.57 ERA, 1.12 WHIP and 76:16 K:BB in 70.2 innings.
May 10 2021Valdez (finger) could throw a bullpen in Houston this week, Chandler Rome of the Houston Chronicle reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Manager Dusty Baker said Sunday that Valdez could return from the injured list in June. The left-hander threw a 20-pitch bullpen session Friday and could do so once again at Minute Maid Park before beginning a rehab assignment in the near future. Valdez recorded a 3.57 ERA and 1.12 WHIP in 70.2 innings across 11 appearances (10 starts) for Houston in 2020.
May 9 2021Astros manager Dusty Baker said Sunday that Valdez (finger) could be available to return from the injured list in June, Danielle Lerner of the Houston Chronicle reports. "Hopefully he'll be ready sometime to come back, which is a miracle, sometime in June. Hopefully," Baker said. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Houston initially feared Valdez might have to miss most of the 2021 season after he fractured the ring finger on his (left) pitching hand in early March, but the southpaw was able to avoid surgery and seems to be progressing faster than expected. After completing a 20-pitch bullpen session Friday, Valdez should gradually ramp up over the next few weeks before eventually heading out on a minor-league rehab assignment. Valdez's return -- whenever it may come -- will be a huge boon to the Houston rotation after he broke out in the abbreviated 2020 campaign with a 3.57 ERA, 1.12 WHIP and 9.7 K/9 over his 11 outings (10 starts).
May 7 2021Valdez (finger) threw a 20-pitch live bullpen Friday, Jake Kaplan of The Athletic reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The lefty starter avoided season-ending surgery on the finger injury and has made rapid progress in his recovery, with Thursday's live session being the next step toward a return. Valdez was stellar in 2020 and, after recovering from the injury and rehabbing in the minors, will slot in as a key cog in the Houston rotation.
Apr 27 2021Valdez (finger) is "way ahead of schedule," according to pitching coach Brent Strom, Chandler Rome of the Houston Chronicle reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Per Strom, Valdez is trying to return quicker than the medical staff wants him to. The young lefty will eventually start building up to five innings at extended spring training before rejoining the big-league rotation, but the team is not willing to set an official timeline. It sounds like Valdez could return sometime in May if he continues this rapid recovery.
Apr 8 2021Astros general manager James Click said Thursday that Valdez (finger) has resumed playing catch off flat ground, Brian McTaggart of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Just over a month after suffering a fractured left ring finger that was initially expected to require surgery, Valdez is initiating a throwing program. Houston likely won't have a definitive target date for the southpaw's 2021 debut until he reaches the point in his rehab where he's pitching in simulated games or minor-league rehab games, but he'll essentially have to complete his normal spring-training build-up program all over again following his shutdown. If he experiences no discomfort while gradually increasing his throwing distance off flat ground for the next week or two, he could then be cleared to step back on the mound for bullpen sessions.
Mar 30 2021Valdez's (finger) outlook remains positive, with Astros pitching coach Brent Strom saying Tuesday that the "news is very, very exciting and very good," Brian McTaggart of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Valdez was previously expected to require season-ending surgery to repair his fractured left ring finger, though that's since been ruled out. He still doesn't have a clear timeline, but it now looks as though those who drafted him before his injury may still get a fair number of starts out of him after all.
Mar 17 2021Valdez won't require surgery as his fractured left ring finger showed "significant healing" during Wednesday's evaluation, Chandler Rome of the Houston Chronicle reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Season-ending surgery was recommended for the 27-year-old after he suffered the injury in early March, but he opted to hold off and still has a chance to pitch this season. Valdez won't be ready for the start of the season and remains without an official recovery timeline, so it's unclear when he might be able to retake the mound.
Mar 6 2021Valdez is still holding out hope that he can avoid season-ending finger surgery, Jon Heyman of MLB Network reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Valdez fractured the ring finger on his throwing hand when it was struck by a comebacker Tuesday. The initial news he heard from doctors was that he'd have to undergo a season-ending procedure, but that's apparently not quite a guarantee. Given that the surgery would knock him out for the entirety of the year but presumably wouldn't affect his 2022 campaign, it makes sense for him to first explore some alternative options, as going through with it in March or May would probably have the same ultimate outcome. In the meantime, the Astros signed Jake Odorizzi on Saturday to fill his spot in the rotation.
Mar 4 2021Valdez has been recommended for surgery to repair the fractured ring finger on his pitching hand, which would likely keep him out for the 2021 season, Jon Heyman of MLB Network reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Valdez will receive a second opinion on the injury before a decision on surgery is made, but the Astros are bracing for the possibility of the 27-year-old being sidelined for the entirety of the upcoming campaign. Even if Valdez avoids surgery, he'll almost certainly open the season on the injured list while he waits for the fractured digit to fully heal. Valdez's absence -- however long it might be -- should improve the odds of youngsters Luis Garcia and Forrest Whitley getting early opportunities out of the Houston rotation.
Mar 3 2021Valdez was diagnosed with a fractured left ring finger Wednesday, Jake Kaplan of The Athletic reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Valdez was able to continue pitching during Tuesday's spring game after he took a groundball off his left hand during the first inning. While he said after the game that he was fine, he was further examined by team doctors Wednesday and diagnosed with a fracture. General manager James Click said that the southpaw will need to undergo further imaging before determining a timetable for his return.
Oct 17 2020Valdez allowed one earned run on three hits and three walks while striking out nine across six innings to earn the win in Game 6 of the ALCS. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Valdez held the Rays in check to force Game 7. The only run he surrendered came in the second inning after he allowed a single and double in the span of three batters. Besides that frame, Valdez allowed only one other hit while racking up 17 called strikes and 17 swinging strikes on 101 total pitches. The performance continued Valdez's strong results in the playoffs, as he's maintained a 1.88 ERA and 26:10 K:BB across 24 innings. If the Astros were to advance to the World Series, Valdez could be in line to start Game 2 on Wednesday.
Oct 12 2020Valdez took the loss to the Rays on Sunday in Game 1 of the ALCS. He allowed two runs on four hits and four walks while striking out eight over six innings. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: An improved walk rate was a big part of Valdez's success during the regular season, but he did not have his usual control Sunday. He issued a season-high four walks and paid the price as the winning run got on base via a free pass. The lefty still has a 2.00 ERA and 17 strikeouts in 18 innings this postseason. Valdez should start Friday if a Game 6 is necessary.
Oct 6 2020Valdez earned the win in Game 2 of the NLDS against the A's on Tuesday after allowing two runs on five hits with four strikeouts and one walk over seven innings. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The left-hander surrendered solo homers to Khris Davis and Chad Pinder, but he otherwise held Oakland in check. Valdez has been impressive in two playoff outings, giving up two runs on seven hits with a 9:3 K:BB across 12 innings. Valdez figures to take the mound early in the ALCS if the Astros are able to complete the series win over the A's.
Sep 29 2020Valdez was credited with the win in Game 1 of the AL Wild Card Series between the Astros and Twins. He allowed two hits and two walks while striking out five over five scoreless innings in relief of Zack Greinke. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Valdez had a breakout regular season and ended up being the story of the wild-card opener. Per Chandler Rome of the Houston Chronicle, Valdez became the first relief pitcher to throw five scoreless innings in a playoff game since Madison Bumgarner in Game 7 of the 2014 World Series. This takes the lefty out of the mix to start during the first round, but should the Astros advance, Valdez will likely start Game 1 or 2 of the best-of-five AL Division Series.
Sep 22 2020Valdez (5-3) earned the win Tuesday, allowing a run on five hits and striking out eight in seven innings versus the Mariners. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Valdez gave up an RBI double to Kyle Seager in the first inning before settling in to keep the Mariners' bats quiet. After allowing 16 runs in three starts to begin September, he's given up just one run in each of his last two outings. Valdez has a 3.57 ERA, 1.12 WHIP and 76 strikeouts in 70.2 innings this season. He's projected for one more regular-season start Sunday against the Rangers.
Sep 17 2020Valdez (4-3) allowed one earned run on four hits and one walk while striking out 11 across 6.1 innings to earn the win Thursday against the Rangers. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Valdez bounced back from a couple shaky outings to dominate the Rangers. He racked up 21 called strikes and 15 swinging strikes across 100 total pitches, matching his season best with 11 punchouts. After allowing three home runs across his past two starts, Valdez limited the Rangers to only one extra-base hit and no long balls. For the season, Valdez now has a 3.82 ERA with a 68:15 K:BB across 63.2 frames. He currently lines up to take his next turn through the rotation Tuesday at Seattle.
Sep 12 2020Valdez did not factor in the decision against the Dodgers on Saturday, pitching five innings and allowing five runs on five hits and one walk while striking out seven. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Valdez gave up only five hits in his five innings, but two of those left the yard and another went for a triple. It was the first time this season the 26-year-old has given up multiple homers in a game -- he entered the contest having yielded only three long balls over 52.1 innings. On a more positive note, Valdez struck out seven after tying a season low with only two whiffs in his previous start. The southpaw has pitched at least five innings in each of his last eight contests and now holds a 4.08 ERA on the season. His next start will come at home against Arizona on Friday.
Sep 6 2020Valdez (3-3) gave up a career-high eight runs and 11 hits Sunday to take the loss against the Angels. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Valdez battled for seven-plus innings and 108 pitches on a 106-degree day in Oakland. The Astros needed him to save the bullpen, but it was a large ask of the left-hander, who crossed the century mark in pitches thrown for the third time this season. He's been a workhorse for the Astros, tossing seven or more innings in five of his last six starts. Valdez is next scheduled to pitch on an extra day of rest, Saturday on the road against the Dodgers.
Sep 1 2020Valdez tossed seven innings against Texas on Tuesday, allowing three runs on five hits and three walks while striking out eight. He did not factor in the decision. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Valdez broke a four-outing string of quality starts in his previous appearance, but he started a new streak with a solid performance Tuesday. The southpaw induced 15 swinging strikes and whiffed eight batters, pushing his season strikeout total to 48 -- good for 15th in the majors. Valdez has also given up only two home runs on the campaign while posting a 2.58 ERA and 1.10 WHIP over 45.1 innings. He'll face the Angels in Los Angeles on Sunday in his next scheduled start.
Aug 30 2020Valdez won't start as scheduled Sunday as the game was postponed after the Athletics reported a positive test for COVID-19. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Assuming nothing comes up across teams as the A's complete contact tracing, the Astros will be fine to begin their next series Tuesday versus the Rangers, with Valdez likely to take the mound. The 26-year-old has a 2.35 ERA, 1.10 WHIP and 40:9 K:BB through six outings this season.
Aug 24 2020Valdez (3-2) allowed four runs on six hits and two walks with 11 strikeouts in seven innings in a win over the Angels on Monday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Valdez wasn't at his best Monday -- the four runs allowed marked a season high -- but the Astros gave him plenty of run support to earn the win. The 26-year-old southpaw has a 2.35 ERA, 1.10 WHIP and 40 strikeouts through 38.1 innings this season. Valdez is expected to make his next start Saturday at home versus the Athletics.
Aug 19 2020Valdez (2-2) was charged with three runs (one earned) on seven hits over 7.2 innings in a win over the Rockies on Wednesday. He struck out five and issued one walk. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: This start in Colorado was Valdez's toughest test yet this season and he passed with flying colors. In fact, he became just the sixth Astros pitcher ever to throw at least seven innings at Coors Field and allow one earned run or fewer, per Brian McTaggart of MLB.com. The 26-year-old lefty is displaying much better control and command than he did a year ago and looks to have real breakout potential. Valdez draws the Angels and A's at home next week.
Aug 14 2020Valdez (1-2) gave up a run on four hits and three walks while striking out five in six innings to earn the win Friday versus the Mariners. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The Astros gave Valdez nine runs of support in the first inning alone, covering up the lone run he allowed on a Kyle Seager sacrifice fly. Valdez has yet to allow more than three runs in any of his four appearances this year. He's at a 1.90 ERA, 1.10 WHIP and 24 strikeouts in 23.2 innings. The 26-year-old will have a tough test in his next start, which is expected to be Wednesday in Colorado.
Aug 8 2020Valdez (0-2) took the loss Saturday in Oakland after giving up two runs (one earned) on seven hits across seven innings. He had nine strikeouts and one walk. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The left-hander surrendered a leadoff homer to Marcus Semien on his sixth pitch of the game, but it would be the only earned run he allowed all afternoon. Valdez allowed three runs over 4.1 innings during his season debut, but over his past two starts he's given up only three runs (one earned) with 17 strikeouts across 13.1 innings. The 26-year-old next lines up to pitch Friday against the Mariners still in search of his first win.
Aug 2 2020Valdez allowed one unearned run on five hits and one walk while striking out eight over 6.1 relief innings in Sunday's 6-5 extra-innings win over the Angels. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Valdez was needed early following Josh James' disastrous three-inning start. Houston's No. 5 starter saved a decimated Astros' bullpen with his quality innings and gave the offense space to come back and win it in extras. Valdez has had his share of shaky starts, so this was a change of pace for the left-hander. Valdez had been scheduled to start Tuesday, but Sunday's relief effort pushed his next start to the weekend, Saturday against the Athletics.
Jul 28 2020Valdez (0-1) took the loss Tuesday, giving up three runs (two earned) on four hits and a walk over 4.1 innings as the Astros fell 5-2 to the Dodgers. He struck out two. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The southpaw took a 2-0 lead into the fifth inning before fading, as the first three Dodgers to the plate in the frame all collected hits en route to Los Angeles batting around. Valdez finished his night having tossed 59 pitches (32 strikes), but his success the first time through the order at least offers some optimism that he can deliver a better result next time out. At the very least, Valdez's rotation spot should be secure given how many other arms the Astros currently have on the shelf.
Jul 22 2020Valdez is scheduled to start Tuesday's series opener against the Dodgers, Chandler Rome of the Houston Chronicle reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The 26-year-old and Brandon Bielak were competing for the final rotation spot during summer camp, but Valdez was able to secure the job. Valdez had a 5.86 ERA and 1.67 WHIP over 70.2 innings at the major-league level last season, and he may not have a long leash if he struggles again during the shortened season. Jose Urquidy (undisclosed) and Austin Pruitt (elbow) aren't available to start the season but figure to be options for the rotation eventually, and Bielak could also remain a factor.
Jul 19 2020Valdez and Brandon Bielak are competing for the last spot in the Astros' rotation, Alyson Footer of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: With Jose Urquidy (undisclosed) not in camp, there's room in the rotation for either Valdez or Bielak. The duo squared off in Saturday's intrasquad game, the final chance either had to submit evidence in the quest to be the No. 5 starter. Valdez allowed a three-run, first-inning home run to Michael Brantley but lasted five innings. He walked one and struck out six in a 74-pitch outing. "He still has some things to learn, but he's a whole lot better than I heard he was in the past, as far as his concentration, as far as his tempo in the game," said manager Dusty Baker, referring to Valdez's penchant for a lack of focus and letting innings get away from him. Baker also noted he'd be speaking with Valdez about missing "three or four signs" during the outing.
Jul 15 2020Valdez is in position to be part of the rotation when the season begins, Brian McTaggart of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Valdez moves up the depth chart and is in position for a rotation slot after a few recent developments. The Astros placed presumptive No. 4 starter Jose Urquidy on the 10-day injured list for undisclosed reasons. Additionally, presumptive No. 5 starter Josh James arrived late to camp because he was home for the birth of his daughter. James is expected to be in the rotation when the season starts, per Houston pitching coach Brent Strom, but there is uncertainty at the back end. With Austin Pruitt (elbow) popping up with an injury Tuesday, Valdez is the most likely candidate to start games if a replacement is needed. "His stuff is electric, his bullpens have been great," said Strom. Valdez appeared in 26 games (eight starts) for the Astros in 2019 and posted a 5.86 ERA. Control has been the left-hander's bane; he walked 44 over 70.2 innings in 2019 and 24 over 37 innings the previous year.
Mar 11 2020Valdez allowed four runs on four hits and one walk while striking out two over 3.2 innings in Tuesday's split-squad game against the Mets. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Valdez made his third spring start, and this was the first blemish. He was already in competition for the No. 5 spot in the rotation, and now the Astros are looking for a temporary fill-in for ace Justin Verlander (lat). Others in the mix for those two spots are Josh James, Austin Pruitt and Bryan Abreu.
Mar 1 2020Valdez allowed two hits and two walks while striking out four over 2.2 scoreless innings in Saturday's game against the Mets. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Valdez faced traffic in each frame but escaped unscathed to run his string of scoreless innings to 4.2 while getting his pitch count to 50 (31 strikes). So far, so good in the left-hander's quest to win the No. 5 starter job. His three walks in 4.2 innings hints at the issue that has prevented Valdez from succeeding in the big leagues, but his ability to work around difficulty and slow things down when getting into a jam was an encouraging sign.
Feb 24 2020Valdez allowed one walk while striking out three over two scoreless innings Sunday against Washington. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Valdez, who is competing for the final rotation spot, submitted an impressive piece of evidence during his first spring start. He needed just 14 pitches to dispatch seven major-league hitters in his two innings. Josh James and Austin Pruitt will also have an opportunity to capture the final rotation spot.
Feb 19 2020Astros pitching coach Brent Strom said Tuesday that Valdez is one of three legitimate candidates for the No. 5 rotation spot, along with Josh James and Austin Pruitt, Chandler Rome of the Houston Chronicle reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Valdez has been inconsistent -- to put it nicely -- in his stints at the major-league level and was left off the playoff roster, but he will get another chance to prove himself as a starter this spring. Strom noted that Valdez once received high praise from the best player in the game. "I never forget what (Mike) Trout said when he faced Valdez that it was some of the best stuff he'd seen in baseball." The left-handed Valdez has a couple minor-league options remaining.
Oct 2 2019Valdez will not be on the Astros' playoff roster, Brian McTaggart of MLB.com reports.
Oct 2 2019Valdez will not be on the Astros' playoff roster, Brian McTaggart of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Valdez struggled to a 5.86 ERA in 70.2 innings for the Astros this season. He won't be needed in the playoffs unless injuries strike Houston's bullpen.
Sep 8 2019Valdez will move to the bullpen as the Astros employ a four-man starting rotation for the final few weeks of the season, Brian McTaggart of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The 25-year-old allowed 10 runs on 13 hits with a 19:14 K:BB over 15.2 innings in three starts since rejoining the rotation in late August, but Houston will take advantage of scheduled off days and September's expanded roster to cover the instances when a fifth starter is necessary. Valdez has a 5.62 ERA, 1.61 WHIP and 64:40 K:BB through 65.2 innings this season.
Sep 7 2019Valdez allowed three runs on two hits and six walks while striking out six over four innings in a no-decision against the Mariners on Friday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Valdez put the Astros into an early hole by walking four and allowing two runs in the first inning, but his teammates bailed him out immediately with three first-inning runs of their own. Command issues have bedeviled the 25-year-old since he rejoined the rotation. In his last three starts. Valdez has walked 14 in 15.2 innings. He is projected to make his next start Wednesday at home against Oakland.
Aug 31 2019Valdez (4-7) allowed six runs on nine hits with three walks and five strikeouts across 5.2 innings while taking a loss against the Blue Jays on Saturday.
Aug 29 2019Valdez is scheduled to make another start Saturday against the Blue Jays.
Aug 25 2019Valdez (4-6) gave up one run on two hits and five walks while striking out eight through six innings to earn the win against the Angels on Sunday.
Aug 24 2019Valdez will be recalled from Triple-A Round Rock to start Sunday's game against the Angels, Jake Kaplan of The Athletic reports.
Aug 15 2019Valdez could be recalled from Triple-A Round Rock to start Saturday's game against the Athletics, Chandler Rome of the Houston Chronicle reports.
Jul 16 2019Valdez was optioned to Triple-A Round Rock on Tuesday, Chandler Rome of the Houston Chronicle<\/a> reports.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
Jul 15 2019Valdez (3-6) took the loss working as the primary pitcher against the Angels on Monday, giving up seven earned runs on six hits over four innings, striking out four and walking four in the Astros' 9-6 defeat.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
Jul 14 2019Valdez is scheduled to serve as either a traditional starter or as the primary pitcher behind an opener during Monday's game against the Angels, Jake Kaplan of The Athletic<\/a> reports.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
Jul 14 2019Valdez will serve as the primary pitcher Monday against the Angels, Brian McTaggart of MLB.com<\/a> reports.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
Jul 12 2019The Astros may use an opener ahead of Valdez's appearance Tuesday in Anaheim, Hunter Atkins of the Houston Chronicle<\/a> reports.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
Jul 11 2019Valdez was called up to start Thursday's game against the Rangers, Hunter Atkins of the Houston Chronicle<\/a> reports.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
Jul 11 2019Valdez (3-5) took the loss after surrendering four runs on four hits and three walks over 0.2 innings Thursday against Texas.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
Jul 10 2019Valdez is expected to be called up to start Thursday's game against the Rangers, Jake Kaplan of The Athletic<\/a> reports.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
Jun 26 2019Valdez (3-4) was optioned to Triple-A Round Rock after taking the loss Wednesday against the Pirates, Chandler Rome of the Houston Chronicle<\/a> reports. He gave up six runs on eight hits across only three innings and had two strikeouts and one walk.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
Jun 20 2019Valdez (3-3) allowed five earned runs on four hits and three walks while striking out three across 3.1 innings to take the loss Thursday against the Yankees.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
Jun 15 2019Valdez (3-2) allowed two runs on four hits and two walks while striking out eight over six innings to pick up the win Saturday against Toronto.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
Jun 8 2019Valdez allowed one run on five hits across seven innings but didn't factor in the decision in Saturday's loss to the Orioles. He struck out seven and walked none.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
Jun 5 2019Valdez will make his first start of the season Saturday against the Orioles, Chandler Rome of the Houston Chronicle<\/a> reports.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
Jun 4 2019Valdez (2-2) earned the win Monday, allowing two hits and two walks while striking out three over four innings of relief.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
Jun 4 2019Valdez will enter the Astros' starting rotation following Corbin Martin's demotion, Chandler Rome of the Houston Chronicle<\/a> reports.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.