In a stunning turn that instantly reshapes the pitching market, Framber Valdez has officially accepted the Chicago Cubs’ aggressive offer, choosing the rising NL contenders after the front office made him their clear No. 1 priority throughout the offseason.
According to sources familiar with the negotiations, the Cubs locked in early on Valdez as their preferred frontline starter and backed that belief with a massive 6-year, $158 million proposal — a bold offer crafted to shut down the competition and secure the left-hander before the Winter Meetings reached full intensity.
After meeting with multiple teams during the GM Meetings — including the Giants, Mets, and Orioles — Valdez ultimately gravitated toward Chicago’s persistent pursuit, long-term vision, and commitment to making him the anchor of a rebuilt rotation. The Cubs made it clear from Day 1 that he was the pitcher they wanted above all others, elevating him past every alternative on their board.
Chicago viewed Valdez as the perfect stabilizer for a staff seeking durability and postseason-caliber dominance, and the front office didn’t hesitate to commit elite-level money to secure him. Their aggressive approach paid off. Valdez, owner of a 3.36 career ERA across more than 1,080 innings, is now set to become the ace the Cubs have long needed.
With Dylan Cease off the board and several clubs hesitant to offer long-term security, Chicago seized the moment — and Valdez responded. By identifying him as their top choice and proving it financially, the Cubs delivered one of the most decisive moves of the entire offseason.
A formal announcement is expected soon, but one thing is already clear:
The Cubs have their ace — locked in, paid, and ready to lead the North Side.
