The Chicago Cubs are heading into the 2026 season with high expectations. After finishing the 2025 campaign with a 92-70 record and getting back into the playoffs for the first time since 2020, they will be looking to take another step in the right direction during the 2026 season.
With the Cubs looking to cement themselves as true contenders, they have been actively looking to improve their roster. They have made a handful of new additions so far during this winter, as they have brought in players like Phil Maton, Hoby Milner, Jacob Webb, and Tyler Austin. However, they should not be done just yet, as they have yet to make a major move.
One specific free agent with whom the Cubs have been heavily connected this offseason is top free agent pitcher Framber Valdez. It is understandable, as there is no question that they could use another impactful starting pitcher in their rotation. With Valdez being a two-time All-Star coming off another strong season, he would certainly give the Cubs just that if they successfully signed him.
Now, the Cubs have gotten a positive update regarding the possibility of them being the lucky club that ends up winning the Valdez sweepstakes.
Cubs Predicted to Sign Star Pitcher Framber Valdez in Free Agency
In a recent article for Bleacher Report, Tim Kelly predicted where the top 10 free agents will end up signing this offseason. With Valdez being the top starting pitcher left on the market, he was naturally among the players who made Kelly’s list.
Kelly predicted that the Cubs would sign Valdez this offseason to a four-year, $114 million contract.
“Valdez may not get the term that he wants, given some of the concerns and the fact that he’s a bit older than some other available options, but the lefty should still do well. The Cubs—a team that has disgusted their fanbase with their lack of moves so far this offseason—remain a strong fit, as do the Mets and Orioles.”
Seeing the Cubs being predicted as the landing spot for Valdez is not particularly surprising. They have been connected to him throughout this offseason, and he would undoubtedly be a big addition to their rotation if they successfully signed him. Furthermore, with the Cubs looking to be the top team in the National League Central, bringing in a pitcher like Valdez could help their chances on that front.
In 31 games this past season with the Houston Astros, Valdez had a 13-11 record, a 3.66 ERA, and 187 strikeouts. With numbers like these, the two-time All-Star would certainly give Chicago’s rotation a nice boost if signed.
Cubs Are Not the Only Team That Could Use Valdez
With Valdez being the top free agent pitcher left, his market should only continue to heat up. Any teams looking to improve their rotations should have him on their radar because of it.
Besides the Cubs, teams like the New York Mets, Baltimore Orioles, and Atlanta Braves are three teams that have been connected to Valdez this offseason. It will be intriguing to see who ends up landing Valdez, but there is no question that he would be a great pickup for Chicago if they get him.
Cubs Get Positive Update in Pursuit of $118 Million Star Pitcher