Astros again hand ball to LHP Framber Valdez for opener

Field Level Media|published: Sun 16th March, 13:27 2025

Mar 28, 2024; Houston, Texas, USA; Houston Astros starting pitcher Framber Valdez (59) delivers a pitch during the first inning against the New York Yankees at Minute Maid Park. Mandatory Credit: Troy Taormina-Imagn Images

Left-hander Framber Valdez was named the Houston Astros' Opening Day starter for a fourth time, manager Joe Espada announced Sunday.

The Astros open their 2024 schedule on March 27 at home against the New York Mets.

In the Astros' opener last season against the New York Yankees at home, Valdez gave up three runs on five hits with six walks and five strikeouts over 4 2/3 innings of a no-decision. Houston ultimately dropped a 5-4 decision.

Valdez, 31, did not give up a run in his initial two Opening Day starts, ending up with a no-decision against the Chicago White Sox in 2023 and a win against the Los Angeles Angels on the road in 2022.

In 28 starts last season, Valdez was 15-7 with a 2.91 ERA, while finishing seventh in American League Cy Young Award voting. In seven seasons with Houston, he is 68-41 with a 3.30 ERA and 866 strikeouts in 888 2/3 innings.

--Field Level Media