The Framber Valdez Effect: Teams Left Scrambling for Pitching Plans
In a shocking move, the Detroit Tigers secured Framber Valdez with a lucrative three-year, $115 million contract. This unexpected signing has left many MLB teams scrambling to find their Plan B for pitching, with limited time to spare. Valdez, the last remaining star free agent, defied expectations by securing the highest annual value ever for a left-handed pitcher. So, who are the teams affected, and what are their backup strategies?
Pittsburgh Pirates: Brayan Bello - The Younger, Affordable Option
The Pirates entered the Valdez sweepstakes late, but now turn their attention to Brayan Bello. Bello, six years Valdez's junior, offers a similar profile but at a fraction of the cost. His impressive 2025 season (3.35 ERA, 1.24 WHIP) showcased his ability to generate ground-ball contact and find a confident balance. With club control through 2029 and an annual cost under $10 million, Bello is a dependable and affordable fifth starter for the Pirates.
Toronto Blue Jays: Kris Bubic - A Depth Move with Potential
The Blue Jays, with their five starters on hefty contracts and rookie sensation Trey Yesavage, don't necessarily need more pitching. However, their all-righty rotation and desire to compete at the highest level make Kris Bubic an intriguing option. Bubic, an ex-starter turned reliever, transitioned back to the rotation in 2025 and became the Royals' most dependable ace. His 2.55 ERA and career-best strikeout rate (24.4%) make him an attractive trade target. With resources to spare, the Blue Jays could make a bold statement by acquiring Bubic, or even entertain a long-term contract if he performs well and helps the team mount another deep run.
Atlanta Braves: Chris Bassitt - Durability and Stability
Despite a well-off rotation on the surface, the Braves are all too familiar with the relentless storyline of injuries. That's where Chris Bassitt comes in. While he may offer more game-to-game variance, Bassitt's durability is his superpower. He's made 30+ starts and pitched at least 170 innings in four straight years, relying on his bendy slider and offspeed offerings to age gracefully. With a cheap one-year deal on the table, Bassitt could provide the Braves with much-needed stability and availability.
San Francisco Giants: Sandy Alcántara - A Risky, Upside-Filled Move
The Miami Marlins continue to shed talent, leaving their 79-win roster from last season largely unchanged. However, the Giants might be willing to take a risk on Sandy Alcántara, who finished 2025 with a poor 5.36 ERA across 31 starts. Alcántara's ability to pitch 174.2 innings post-elbow surgery is promising, and his affordable $17.3 million expiring contract (with a $21 million club option for 2027) makes him an intriguing option. As a sinkerballer like Valdez, Alcántara offers more zip but also more inconsistency. If he can rediscover his past form, he could be a solid No. 3 starter behind Logan Webb and Robbie Ray.
San Diego Padres: Justin Verlander - A Short-Term Solution
The Padres' ownership debacle is finally settled, but AJ Preller's hands are tied financially. With the Michael King extension as their main expense, the Padres are left searching for bargains. Justin Verlander, a three-time Cy Young winner and future Hall of Famer, fits the bill. While the Padres need to get younger overall, Verlander could provide a one-year investment as a No. 5 starter. His 2025 season, marked by ups and downs, ended on a positive note with a 3.85 ERA across 29 starts. If he can maintain durability and deliver consistent results, he could be a valuable addition to the Friars.
Baltimore Orioles: Zac Gallen - A Change of Scenery Could Spark a Resurgence
The Orioles felt like the favorites to sign Valdez, but now turn their attention to Zac Gallen. Gallen's 2025 season was a mixed bag (4.83 ERA in 33 starts), but his durability and workhorse mentality are huge assets. Gallen, a two-time Cy Young voter, still has gas in the tank at 30. If he can refine his fastball and command, and embrace a change of scenery, this signing could carry massive upside for the O's. With Trevor Rogers' success in 2025 and a potential return to form for Kyle Bradish, the Orioles' rotation could find itself in a much better place.
So, what do you think? Are these backup plans solid alternatives, or do they leave something to be desired? Feel free to share your thoughts and opinions in the comments below!
