By Sunday 
Mets Fans Want an Ace — But Stearns Has Other Plans
Let’s be real: every Mets fan is dreaming of that one true ace who can finally anchor the rotation and make 2026 the season 2025 was supposed to be. The name buzzing around lately? Framber Valdez — the Astros’ durable, groundball-generating southpaw who looks tailor-made for Queens.
He’s consistent, proven, and — in a league where pitchers drop like flies — refreshingly dependable. Add in the fact that Mets President of Baseball Operations David Stearns once crossed paths with Valdez in Houston, and you’ve got the perfect rumor storm.
But here’s the thing: don’t get too attached.
The Stearns Philosophy: No Long Leashes for Pitchers
David Stearns has made one thing clear since taking over: he doesn’t like being handcuffed by long-term pitching contracts. Big money, big years — that’s not his playbook.
He’s watched enough “can’t-miss” deals go sideways when injuries strike or performance dips in the back half. That’s why his offseason mantra isn’t “find an ace,” but “improve run prevention.”
That could mean defense. That could mean bullpen depth. Or maybe even smart mid-tier signings instead of one big splash.
In other words: Stearns builds balance, not blockbusters.
Framber Valdez: Dream Arm, Red Flags Included
Now, there’s no denying Valdez’s talent. The guy has been a model of consistency — over 176 innings in four straight seasons, a career ERA of 3.36, and a groundball rate north of 60%. That’s elite stuff.
But the flip side? He’ll want a contract that mirrors Max Fried’s eight-year, $218 million deal. That’s the kind of number that makes Stearns’ pen freeze mid-signature.
Then there’s the temper issue. Valdez’s “unintentional” cross-up with catcher César Salazar after giving up a grand slam to Trent Grisham didn’t exactly scream clubhouse harmony. Add a late-season collapse (a 5.20 ERA down the stretch) and suddenly, this “ace” comes with fine print.
A Houston Connection That Doesn’t Mean Much Now
Yes, Stearns was in Houston’s front office when Valdez was signed back in 2015 — for just $10,000, no less. But that doesn’t mean there’s some unspoken bond waiting to be rekindled in Queens.
Stearns didn’t sign Valdez personally, and he’s not the sentimental type. He sees risk and value through a cold, analytical lens — not nostalgia.
So while fans might look at that connection and imagine destiny, Stearns is more likely to see it as a fun fact — not a reason to commit eight years and $200 million.
Reality Check: Don’t Read Too Much Into the Rumors
Mets fans deserve hope. After a frustrating 2025, dreaming about a front-line starter is part of the fun. But reality check: the Framber Valdez-to-New-York chatter? It’s just that — chatter.
Stearns’ cautious approach, Valdez’s price tag, and those personality red flags make this connection more fantasy than forecast.
At the end of the day, David Stearns might admire Framber Valdez from afar. But when it comes to actually pulling the trigger? Don’t get your hopes up.