The free-agent market for Framber Valdez, arguably the best starter left in free agency, seems to be picking up steam with spring training approaching.
The Pittsburgh Pirates - already flush with starting pitching - are aggressively pursuing Valdez, sources told Ken Rosenthal of The Athletic.
Pittsburgh turned its eyes toward the left-hander after failing to find additional offensive upgrades. The Bucs previously signed Ryan O'Hearn and traded for Brandon Lowe and were apparently among the finalists for slugger Eugenio Suárez before he joined the division-rival Cincinnati Reds.
Valdez would boost an already excellent Pirates rotation into one of baseball's best. He'd join superstar Paul Skenes as one half of a formidable duo atop the group, with Mitch Keller and top prospect Bubba Chandler slotting in behind them. The 32-year-old would bring big-game experience to a young staff, having made 16 career playoff starts while helping pitch the Houston Astros to a World Series title in 2022.