Framber Valdez is heading to the Tigers

Surprising news in the world of baseball.

According to Jeff Passan, the Detroit Tigers have managed to secure the services of Framber Valdez. The pitcher has signed a three-year, $115 million contract.

Framber Valdez was the best free agent left on the market, and Detroit gave him a $38.3 million annual salary. There is an opt-out in the contract after the second season, sources said. Valdez waited until the eve of spring training but wound up with a strong outcome regardless.

— Jeff Passan (@JeffPassan) February 5, 2026

At $38.33 million, it's a record for a left-handed pitcher in the history of the sport. The pitcher has an opt-out clause in two years.

The Tigers are preparing for Tarik Skubal's departure. Skubal had his arbitration hearing this afternoon. It is not yet known whether he won or lost, but the contract offered to Valdez suggests that the pitcher lost.

Details to follow…

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