Houston Astros Finalize Deals to Avoid Arbitration with Valdez

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Isaac Paredes steps into a crucial role for Houston after a trade, boosting the team's infield depth (Houston Astros)

The Astros have confirmed agreements with all eight of their arbitration-eligible players, including All-Star pitcher Framber Valdez, who will earn $18 million for the 2025 season, according to a source.

Valdez played a pivotal role last season, posting a 15-7 record and a 2.91 ERA over 28 starts. He led the team in both wins and innings pitched, with 176 1/3 frames.

Framber Valdez shines bright as he leads the Astros with an $18 million contract for the 2025 season (Houston Astros)

His second-half performance stood out, as he relied more on his curveball, resulting in a 10-2 record, a 2.19 ERA, and a 1.03 WHIP across his final 16 starts. During those games, the Astros won 14 of 16.

Thursday marked the final opportunity for teams to submit salary figures for arbitration-eligible players. By finalizing contracts with all eight players, Houston has successfully avoided arbitration hearings this year.

Other Players Who Reached Agreements

SS Jeremy Peña ($4.1 million)

Peña maintained a .266 batting average with 15 home runs, 28 doubles, and 20 stolen bases last season. He contributed 70 RBIs and registered a .701 OPS over 157 games as Houston’s starting shortstop.

RHP Bryan Abreu ($3.45 million)

Abreu excelled as a setup man, appearing in 78 games with a 3.10 ERA over 78 1/3 innings. He held opponents to a .207 batting average and achieved 11.83 strikeouts per nine innings, leading MLB with 38 holds.

3B Isaac Paredes ($6.625 million)

Paredes, acquired last month in a trade involving Kyle Tucker, played 153 games with the Cubs and Rays, hitting .238 with 19 home runs and 80 RBIs. An All-Star last season, he is expected to replace Alex Bregman at third base.

OF Jake Meyers ($2.3 million)

Meyers contributed 13 home runs and 61 RBIs, posting a .646 OPS across 148 games. While his first-half OPS peaked at .736, including a standout May with a .924 mark, his second-half performance dropped to a .526 OPS. Meyers also earned recognition as a Gold Glove finalist in center field.

OF Chas McCormick ($3.4 million)

After a strong 2023 campaign, McCormick’s performance declined in 2024, with a .211 batting average, five home runs, and a .576 OPS over 94 games. He is positioned to start in right field for the Astros in 2025.

INF/OF Mauricio Dubón ($5 million)

Dubón showcased versatility by playing seven different positions in a single season, excluding only catcher and pitcher. He hit .269 with four home runs and 47 RBIs last year.

RHP Luis Garcia ($3.75 million)

Garcia, recovering from Tommy John surgery performed in May 2023, missed the entire 2024 season.

Before his injury, he made six starts in 2023 following a 15-8 record and a 3.72 ERA in 2022. His 2025 salary matches his 2024 earnings.

By Collins Abia

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