The Baltimore Orioles are expected to conclude their offseason by securing one of the remaining free-agent starting pitchers, with Framber Valdez and Ranger Suarez emerging as prime targets. There’s also speculation about Zac Gallen, albeit on a lesser deal, as a potential addition this winter. Interestingly, the Orioles missed out on Valdez several years ago when they nearly acquired him in a trade with the Houston Astros.
According to recent reports from The Athletic’s Ken Rosenthal and Will Sammon, the Orioles were on the verge of trading All-Star closer Zach Britton to Houston in 2017, which would have included Valdez as part of the deal. However, concerns about an injury to another prospect in the trade led the Orioles to back out. Britton, meanwhile, was traded a year later to the New York Yankees in a deal that has not proven beneficial for Baltimore.
Imagining a scenario where the Orioles successfully traded for Valdez raises intriguing questions about the team’s trajectory. Had they landed him, they might have avoided future trades, such as the one for Corbin Burnes, and possibly secured an extension for Valdez.
As they consider signing a player like Valdez, who had a tumultuous last season with Houston—including public criticism of his coaching staff and on-field miscommunication—Baltimore remains in a favorable position. The Orioles have already done significant research on Valdez, reflecting interest from the time of the failed trade. Additionally, General Manager Mike Elias’s previous ties to the Astros could be a vital factor in negotiations.
As the offseason nears its end, it seems that reaching an agreement with Valdez would be a positive and strategic move for the Orioles, reinforcing their ambitions for the upcoming season.