Valdez Has Thrown Two Solid Outings Despite Lack Of Support From Astros Teammates
Framber Valdez may not have a victory to his name yet in 2023, but he’s off to a solid start.
Valdez, a top candidate to win the American League Cy Young award, tossed five scoreless innings against the Chicago White Sox on Opening Day.
Valdez then gave up only two earned runs in seven innings in his next start against the Detroit Tigers.
The Houston Astros lost both games, but Valdez’s 1.50 ERA shows that he’s more than ready for a strong season.
Valdez went 17-6 with a 2.82 ERA and placed fifth in AL Cy Young award voting last season.
“I think the team is playing well,” Valdez told reporters. “Those are just things that happen in baseball. Sometimes you think you’re going to get a play, but there’s a lot of uncertainty with some things there. I think we need to continue to work and make adjustments, and we’ll be good.”
The Astros, who won 106 games in the regular season last year and ultimately their second World Series title since 2017, need Valdez to continue delivering as their ace.
Even with arguably the best bullpen in baseball, the more innings thrown by Valdez and the starters will help immensely.
“Very important for me and also important for the bullpen,” Valdez said. “Those guys have thrown a lot the last couple of days, and it’s my goal to try to pitch deep into the games.”
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