Chicago Cubs Target Framber Valdez to Anchor Revamped 2026 Pitching Staff

The Chicago Cubs are aggressively pursuing a top-tier starting pitcher this offseason. Their primary target is now former Houston Astros ace Framber Valdez. This move aims to solidify a rotation that faltered in last year’s playoffs.

Team executives have publicly stressed pitching as their absolute priority. According to MLB journalist Andrew Simon, Valdez’s specific skills make the Cubs a perfect landing spot.

Why Valdez is an Ideal Fit for Wrigley Field

The Cubs are in a strong position to sign the two-time All-Star. His pitching profile aligns perfectly with the team’s greatest strength: elite defense.

Valdez generates a high rate of ground balls. This plays directly into the gloves of Gold Glove middle infielders Dansby Swanson and Nico Hoerner. The entire Cubs defense, from third baseman Matt Shaw to center fielder Pete Crow-Armstrong, is built to convert grounders into outs.

This defensive support could elevate Valdez’s performance even further. He would slot in alongside young star Cade Horton, creating a formidable one-two punch for the rotation.

Valdez Brings Proven Durability and Ace-Caliber Performance

The left-hander has been a model of consistency. Over the past four seasons with Houston, he averaged 30 starts per year.

His statistics from 2022 to 2025 are impressive. He averaged 14 wins annually with a 3.21 ERA and 188 strikeouts per season. His 1.16 WHIP demonstrates excellent control and an ability to limit baserunners.

For the Cubs, this represents the reliable, front-line starter they desperately need. His experience and proven track record in high-pressure games would immediately change the team’s postseason outlook.

The Cubs’ pursuit of Framber Valdez is a clear signal of their intent to compete now. Securing a pitcher of his caliber would fundamentally transform their 2026 prospects and finally answer their most glaring need.

Thought you’d like to know

Why do the Cubs need Framber Valdez so badly?

Their rotation depth was exposed in the 2025 NLDS. Injuries left them without reliable starters, leading to a quick playoff exit. Valdez provides the durable, top-end arm they lacked.

What makes Valdez a good fit for the Cubs’ defense?

He induces a very high percentage of ground balls. The Cubs feature one of baseball’s best defensive infields, highlighted by Gold Glove winners Swanson and Hoerner, tailor-made to turn those grounders into outs.

What were Framber Valdez’s recent stats with the Astros?

From 2022 through 2025, he was remarkably consistent. He averaged 14 wins, a 3.21 ERA, 188 strikeouts, and a 1.16 WHIP per season while making about 30 starts each year.

Who would Valdez pitch alongside in the Cubs rotation?

He would join emerging ace Cade Horton at the top of the rotation. This pairing would give Chicago two powerful left-handed starters to build their pitching strategy around for the long term.

Did the Cubs try to get other pitchers this offseason?

Yes. They were previously engaged in a bidding war for Dylan Cease. After he signed with the Toronto Blue Jays, their focus shifted squarely to Framber Valdez as their primary target.