The two teams that need Framber Valdez the most

Now that Ranger Suarez is in Boston, the other big pitcher on the free agent market (Framber Valdez) has more room to try and get the contract he wants.

After all, he now knows where he stands.

In fact, since he's the best option on the market and guys like Dylan Cease and Tatsuya Imai have also signed in recent weeks, some teams may be overcome with a sense of urgency.

Freddy Peralta may be available on the trade market in Milwaukee, but the Brewers aren't going to let him go on the cheap.

In fact, right now, there are two teams that need a top-notch pitcher quite a bit more than other teams. We're talking about the New York Mets and the Baltimore Orioles.

According to Mark Feinsand, these two teams will be at the height of the race to sign the former Astros pitcher.

With Ranger Suárez headed to Boston, how will clubs and the market respond? https://t.co/AfFVSbKJbi

– Mark Feinsand (@Feinsand) January 15, 2026

The Orioles may have more time to devote to the pitcher now that their position players are settled and their #1 priority is in the rotation.

Will Mike Elias, who knew Valdez in Houston, find the right words to bring the left-hander to Maryland? Does he have the budget to be on the same dance floor as the Mets?

The pitcher may be better off waiting until the New York Mets have finished battling with the Toronto Blue Jays and Los Angeles Dodgers for Kyle Tucker's services.

Remember, this is a matter that could be settled today.

Today could be the day that Kyle Tucker makes his decision, says @Ken_Rosenthal. pic.twitter.com/rzEWa3Q5vw

– Foul Territory (@FoulTerritoryTV) January 15, 2026

I don't know how much the Mets will prioritize the mound once the Tucker deal is over (after all, they have several holes), but Valdez has to be pretty high on their list.

Will David Stearns want to spend? Will Valdez's character make clubs back off? We'll see.

This content was created with the help of AI.