Framber Valdez’s three-year, $115 million deal with Detroit caught many by surprise, especially given how rarely the Tigers spend at that level.
Houston Astros starting pitcher Framber Valdez (59) pitches on September 7, 2025. | Jerome Miron-Imagn Images
Early in the offseason, the Mets were viewed as a natural fit for Valdez, needing another frontline starter after rotation struggles in 2025.
Detroit’s aggressive move initially fueled speculation that Tarik Skubal could eventually become available via trade.
Detroit Tigers pitcher Tarik Skubal high-fives teammates. | Junfu Han / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images
That possibility mattered to the Mets, who would have been obvious suitors if the Tigers shifted direction.
Instead, Detroit publicly committed to keeping Skubal, closing that door and reshaping the pitching market.
At the same time, Valdez’s market appeared to narrow, raising questions about why New York never made a final push.
Milwaukee Brewers pitcher Freddy Peralta (51) delivers a pitch. | Michael McLoone-Imagn Images
The answer traces back to the Mets’ decision to trade for Freddy Peralta.
According to MLB insider Jon Heyman, that trade effectively ended any pursuit of Valdez immediately.
Once Peralta arrived, the Mets viewed their rotation need as solved rather than partially addressed.
Financial considerations mattered, but roster balance and long-term planning were equally influential.
Valdez also entered free agency with minor off-field questions lingering from a controversial in-game incident.
While intent was never confirmed, the episode raised quiet concerns around clubhouse dynamics.
Peralta, by contrast, carries a strong reputation as a teammate and leader.
That difference aligned better with a Mets roster already undergoing major turnover.
Ultimately, the Mets didn’t miss out on Valdez at the finish line.
They chose a different direction earlier, believing Peralta represented the cleaner and safer solution.
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