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Scouting Report
Updated May 19, 2026
Framber Valdez, a 32-year-old left-hander signed by the Detroit Tigers to a $115 million contract, had a catastrophic outing against the Boston Red Sox on Tuesday, allowing 10 runs (7 earned) in 3+ innings. After surrendering back-to-back home runs to Willson Contreras (449 feet) and Wilyer Abreu (396 feet), Valdez hit Trevor Story with a 94 mph fastball—his first four-seam fastball of the season—triggering a bench-clearing incident. He was ejected and subsequently suspended for 5 games (reduced from 6) for intentionally throwing at Story. Manager A.J. Hinch also received a 1-game suspension and did not defend Valdez's actions, stating the incident "didn't feel like" the brand of baseball the Tigers play. Valdez denied intent but few were convinced. He is eligible to return for Wednesday's game against the Mets after serving his suspension.
Strengths
- + Completed scheduled bullpen session during suspension
- + Able to maintain normal workload preparation
- + Eligible to return after 5-game suspension
- + Signed to significant $115M contract indicating organizational confidence
Weaknesses
- - Career-worst performance: 10 runs allowed in 3+ innings
- - Intentional throwing at batter resulting in 5-game suspension
- - Ejected from game
- - Lack of managerial support from A.J. Hinch
- - First four-seam fastball of season used to hit batter, suggesting premeditation
- - Discipline issues and poor judgment
- - Emotional control concerns
- - Worst outing of his 9-year career
Injury Status: day-to-day
About
Enmanuel Valdez is a first baseman for the Chicago Cubs.
Player Overview
1B
Chicago Cubs