Tigers Secure Three-Year Contract with Framber Valdez
Framber Valdez has officially signed a three-year contract with the Detroit Tigers, valued at $115 million. This agreement, reported by ESPN’s Jeff Passan, includes an opt-out clause after the second year. Valdez’s contract also features a substantial signing bonus of $20 million, as noted by Jon Heyman of The New York Post.
Tigers’ New Rotation Dynamics
Valdez’s addition marks a significant boost for the Tigers’ pitching lineup. He reunites with manager A.J. Hinch, creating a formidable 1-2 punch alongside Tarik Skubal. With Valdez on the roster, the Tigers’ starting rotation is projected to be one of the strongest in the American League.
Projected Starting Rotation
- Tarik Skubal
- Framber Valdez
- Reese Olson
- Jack Flaherty
- Casey Mize
If all pitchers remain healthy through training camp, KBO signee Drew Anderson is expected to work in a swing role. Additionally, second-year righty Troy Melton may either take a position in the bullpen or await an opportunity in Triple-A.
Contract Implications
The Skubal-Valdez duo may only last a single season together, as Skubal is nearing potential free agency. Following an arbitration hearing regarding his salary, a decision on whether Skubal will earn $19 million or $32 million is pending. The outcome of this ruling will be revealed tomorrow, although both Skubal’s camp and the Tigers are not privy to the arbiters’ conclusions.
Overall Team Strategy
The Tigers’ decision to acquire Valdez reflects a commitment to contend in the upcoming season. This move is seen as a decisive shift after a relatively conservative trade deadline. Prior to Valdez’s signing, the Tigers retained pitcher Jack Flaherty on a $20 million player option and secured Gleyber Torres through a $22.025 million qualifying offer. They also brought back Kyle Finnegan on a two-year deal and added Anderson and closer Kenley Jansen on one-year contracts.
Overall, this strategy indicates that the Tigers are focused on building a competitive roster capable of making a significant impact in the American League.
