Cubs Eyeing Framber Valdez as Potential Major Signing

The Chicago Cubs’ offseason has been anything but quiet, with some major moves already made. The club, which has often been in the spotlight in recent years for both good and bad reasons, has kicked things into high gear as the 2026 season approaches. One of the biggest headlines has been the acquisition of two All-Star talents: third baseman Alex Bregman and outfielder Kyle Tucker. These moves alone have given Cubs fans plenty of reason to be optimistic about the team’s future.

However, the Cubs are not done yet. According to MLB insider Bob Nightengale, the team might be eyeing another significant addition to their roster – a move that could solidify their pitching rotation even further. The Cubs have reportedly been in discussions for Arizona Diamondbacks ace Zac Gallen, who is one of the most sought-after pitchers on the market this offseason. Despite that, the Cubs’ interest doesn’t stop there.

In a surprising turn of events, Framber Valdez, another top-tier starting pitcher, is still available on the market. Many were expecting the Houston Astros to lock down their workhorse left-hander, but as of now, he remains unsigned. Nightengale recently named the Cubs among the favorites to land Valdez, suggesting that the team could be eyeing a potential game-changer for their rotation.

Cubs’ Rotation Strengthening: A Game-Changer for the Future?

Adding Valdez to the Cubs’ already solid pitching staff would elevate their rotation to another level. The Cubs have been busy in the offseason, and their $175 million investment in Alex Bregman has proven that they are willing to spend to build a championship-contending roster. The signing of Bregman, a Gold Glove winner, not only strengthens the Cubs’ infield but also brings a significant leadership presence to the dugout. Adding Valdez could provide similar impact on the mound.

“The Cubs, who already dropped $175 million with the Alex Bregman signing, would have a sensational rotation of Justin Steele (when he returns in the second half), Edward Cabrera, Matthew Boyd, Cade Horton, Shota Imanaga, and Jameson Taillon in the mix for starts,” Nightengale wrote. “The Cubs, who have been engaged in talks with fellow free agent Zac Gallen, will need another front-line starter in a year anyway, with Boyd, Taillon, and Imanaga all free agents after the 2026 season.”

Indeed, the Cubs could be setting themselves up for a major overhaul of their rotation in the near future. After 2026, Boyd, Taillon, and Imanaga will all hit free agency, leaving the Cubs with some crucial decisions to make about their pitching staff. With this looming in mind, securing a long-term arm like Valdez could help ensure that the Cubs remain competitive in the coming seasons, no matter what the future holds.

But why is Valdez such a crucial piece for the Cubs? While many have questioned whether the Astros would let go of their ace, the left-hander remains a formidable presence in the league. After all, he’s a two-time All-Star who boasts a career ERA of 3.36 and has been a consistent force on the mound for Houston since his breakout 2021 season.

What Can Cubs Fans Expect From Valdez?

Despite a slightly down year in 2025, where Valdez posted a 3.66 ERA, the left-hander remains an incredibly reliable option for any team in need of starting pitching depth. In fact, the 2025 season was far from a disaster – it just didn’t quite match the exceptional numbers Valdez has put up in previous seasons. With a career 3.36 ERA, Valdez has consistently proven that he can be a workhorse for his team.

Over the past few years, Valdez has been nothing short of stellar. Since 2021, he has posted a remarkable 3.20 ERA across 143 starts, racking up 875 strikeouts in the process. His ability to generate strikeouts while keeping his ERA in check has made him one of the league’s more underrated aces. Even when he’s not at his absolute best, Valdez can still provide a level of consistency that few pitchers can match.

The Cubs’ rotation would only benefit from adding a pitcher like Valdez, who can log innings and provide stability. With Justin Steele expected to miss time early in the 2026 season due to injury, adding a reliable pitcher like Valdez could be exactly what the Cubs need. The left-hander’s durability and skill set make him an ideal candidate to step in and provide immediate support for a team that already has playoff aspirations.

A Potential Short-Term Deal?

One of the most intriguing aspects of Valdez’s situation is the possibility of a one-year deal. While the Cubs could pursue him on a long-term basis, Valdez might be inclined to sign a shorter deal in hopes of securing a more lucrative contract down the road. In such a scenario, the Cubs could lock him down for a single season, allowing them to bolster their rotation for the immediate future while buying time for other potential moves.

Given the Cubs’ ongoing plans for the next few years, Valdez could be a perfect bridge between now and the team’s future pitching strategy. While some may view him as a short-term answer, the Cubs could also see this as a long-term investment that strengthens their chances in 2027 and beyond.

What Does This Mean for the Cubs’ Long-Term Future?

Looking beyond the 2026 season, the Cubs’ plans for Valdez are clear. If they can secure him on a longer-term deal, it would help shore up their rotation for years to come. With players like Boyd, Taillon, and Imanaga all set to become free agents after the 2026 season, Valdez could provide the stability and experience that the Cubs will need when facing possible departures.

It is also worth noting that the Cubs have a strong farm system with up-and-coming pitchers like Cade Horton and Shota Imanaga. Adding a veteran presence like Valdez would provide them with both mentorship and support, helping to fast-track their younger arms’ development. Moreover, Valdez’s experience in big games – particularly during his time in the postseason with the Astros – could help guide the Cubs during high-pressure situations, should they make it deep into October.

As the Cubs continue their offseason plans, the potential addition of Valdez only adds to the excitement surrounding the team. With key acquisitions already in place and potential moves on the horizon, Cubs fans have much to look forward to as they gear up for the 2026 season.

The Bottom Line

With the Cubs’ pitching staff potentially facing a significant overhaul in the near future, adding Framber Valdez could be a game-changing move. His consistent track record, strikeout ability, and experience in big games make him an excellent fit for a team aiming for contention in both the short- and long-term. If the Cubs can secure him for the right deal, it could prove to be a pivotal moment in their quest to return to the top of the National League.

It’s safe to say that Cubs fans are watching closely as the offseason continues to unfold. With the possibility of adding a star pitcher like Valdez, the team’s chances of contending for the postseason in 2026 just became even more real. The Cubs have set the stage for a strong, competitive season, and it looks like they are far from finished making moves.

The Chicago Cubs could soon be making their biggest splash yet in free agency, and adding Framber Valdez could be the final piece of the puzzle that propels them into the postseason once again.