Framber Valdez signs with Tigers as timing shapes the move

Left-hander Framber Valdez signed a reported $115 million deal with the Detroit Tigers and was introduced at a Lakeland, Fla., press conference; his journey from the Dominican Republic and a long Houston tenure were central to the presentation.

Framber Valdez was introduced by the Detroit Tigers in Lakeland, Fla., after signing a reported $115 million contract. He grew up in Sabana Grande de Palenque in the Dominican Republic, signed with the Houston Astros at age 21 for $10,000, and later accumulated more than 1,080 innings, two All-Star selections, a World Series ring and a no-hitter. The Tigers pursued Valdez late in the winter amid roster needs and a quieter free-agent market, and he met with manager A.J. Hinch before the team completed the deal. Key points: - Valdez was presented by the Tigers at a press conference after agreeing to a reported $115 million deal. - He rose from modest beginnings in the Dominican Republic, signed with the Astros at 21, and developed into a durable, high-innings left-handed starter. - The player is sometimes known by the nickname "La Grasa," and teammates and coaches described his intensity and preparation. - Incidents during his final season in Houston included a noted cross-up with catcher César Salazar and a public comment about defensive positioning; Valdez has called the cross-up unintentional and apologized. - Detroit’s interest increased after the club learned of another pitcher’s injury and with Tarik Skubal nearing free agency; the contract includes an opt-out after the second season. Summary: Valdez’s signing adds an experienced left-handed starter to Detroit’s rotation and reflects both his personal arc and the Tigers’ roster decisions late in the offseason. He will join the club for spring training as the team integrates him with other starters, and the contract’s opt-out feature has implications for roster planning after the second season. The longer-term effects on Detroit’s rotation will depend on how the season and future roster moves unfold.