The Atlanta Braves were previously mentioned as a possible suitor for star free agent pitcher Framber Valdez. With Valdez still remaining unsigned late in January, the Braves are once again being connected to the starting pitcher. While the Baltimore Orioles are the favorite, Jim Bowden of The Athletic recently reported that the Braves, San Francisco Giants, Detroit Tigers and Philadelphia Phillies are still "fits" for the left-hander.

The Braves are not currently serious contenders in the Valdez sweepstakes. With that being said, they have not been ruled out either. If Valdez's asking price drops, perhaps Atlanta will become more involved. 

Valdez, 32, is a two-time All-Star who has spent his entire career in Houston with the Astros. A reunion with the Astros is seemingly unlikely at the moment, however. 

In 2025, he pitched to a 3.66 ERA across 192 innings. He also struck out 187 hitters in his 31 outings.

Framber Valdez is one of the better left-handed pitchers in the sport. It will be interesting to see what his contract ends up looking like. One has to imagine he will land at least a three or four-year deal, and the contract could include opt-outs. If Valdez does not receive a deal he wants, he could sign a one-year contract in hopes of receiving a better offer next offseason.

Would Valdez help the Braves? Sure. Does Atlanta absolutely need him? Not necessarily.

The Braves' rotation is already strong with Chris Sale, Spencer Schwellenbach and Spencer Strider leading the way. Reynaldo Lopez and Hurston Waldrep are other rotation options. The rotation would look even better with another ace-caliber starter on the team, but missing out on Valdez would not be the end of the world for the Braves. 

It is also worth noting that Zac Gallen is still available in free agency. Additionally, if Atlanta truly has a desire to bring in another starter for the upcoming campaign, veterans such as Lucas Giolito, Max Scherzer or Justin Verlander may be options. There are other starting candidates even if Valdez ends up signing elsewhere.

Nevertheless, the Braves are still being connected to him as a possible suitor. They likely won't stop being linked to him unless either they or Valdez shut the fit down, or Valdez makes his free agency decision.

One has to imagine Valdez's decision will be made soon, as spring training is only a few weeks away.