In a stunning turn that instantly reshapes the pitching market, Framber Valdez has officially accepted the Texas Rangers’ offer, choosing the reigning World Series contenders after the club made him their clear No. 1 priority throughout the offseason.
According to sources familiar with the negotiations, the Rangers locked in early on Valdez as their preferred frontline starter and backed that belief with a massive 6-year, $158 million offer — an aggressive proposal designed to shut down competition and secure the left-hander before the Winter Meetings heated up.
After meeting with multiple teams during the GM Meetings — including the Giants, Mets, and Orioles — Valdez ultimately gravitated toward Texas’ relentless pursuit and championship-ready roster. The Rangers made it clear from Day 1 that he was their top rotation target, pushing him ahead of every other free-agent pitcher on their board.
Texas viewed Valdez as the perfect stabilizer for a rotation that has battled injuries and inconsistency, and the front office didn’t hesitate to commit elite-level money to get the deal done. Their approach worked. Valdez, owner of a 3.36 career ERA across more than 1,080 innings, is now set to anchor the Rangers’ staff for years to come.
With Dylan Cease off the board and several clubs unwilling to offer long-term security, Texas seized the moment — and Valdez responded. By elevating him as their top choice and proving it financially, the Rangers delivered one of the offseason’s most decisive moves.
Official team announcement is expected soon, but one thing is undeniable:
The Rangers have their ace — locked in and paid.
