PORT ST. LUCIE, Fla. — Framber Valdez has been announced as the starting pitcher for the Houston Astros’ opening day, marking his fourth consecutive season in this role.
The Astros’ manager, Joe Espada, confirmed on Sunday that the left-handed pitcher will take the mound on March 27 when the team faces off against the New York Mets.
Valdez, who is 31 years old, delivered an impressive performance last season for the AL West champions. He achieved a record of 15 wins and 7 losses, along with a 2.91 ERA across 28 starts. His performance placed him seventh in the American League Cy Young Award voting.
On Saturday, Valdez continued to showcase his prowess by striking out six batters over four scoreless innings during a Grapefruit League game against Miami.
Since making his major league debut with Houston in 2018, Valdez has been a vital component of the team’s pitching staff. His efforts were crucial in the Astros’ 2022 World Series victory.
Over his career in the majors, he has accumulated a record of 68 wins, 41 losses, and an ERA of 3.30 across 157 games, all with the Astros.
During last year’s opening day against the New York Yankees, Valdez allowed three runs and five hits in 4 2/3 innings in a game that concluded in a 5-4 loss for Houston, earning him a no-decision.
