In a significant development for the Detroit Tigers, left-handed pitcher Framber Valdez has publicly clarified a controversial on-field incident from September 2025 involving his former Houston Astros catcher, César Salazar. Valdez asserts that the cross-up, which seemingly impacted his free agency negotiations, was entirely unintentional and a product of intense game-time adrenaline. Having now signed a short-term deal with the Tigers, Valdez is eager to move past the incident and focus on his new role, with strong backing from Tigers manager A.J. Hinch and fellow catcher Jake Rogers.
Valdez Addresses Past Controversy as He Joins Detroit Tigers
LAKELAND, FL – On Wednesday, February 11, 2026, at the 34 Club of Joker Marchant Stadium, newly acquired Detroit Tigers left-handed pitcher Framber Valdez openly discussed the September 2, 2025, cross-up incident with his former Houston Astros teammate, catcher César Salazar. Speaking in Spanish, Valdez, whose words were translated by MLive's Evan Woodbery, emphasized that the event was accidental and not driven by personal animosity. The incident occurred during the fifth inning of a game against the New York Yankees, where Salazar anticipated a breaking ball, but Valdez delivered a 92.8 mph fastball that struck the catcher in the chest. This play happened just two pitches after Yankees outfielder Trent Grisham hit a grand slam off Valdez, a moment of high tension and adrenaline for the pitcher. Valdez reiterated that he had apologized to Salazar, and both players later confirmed the lack of intentionality. This controversial episode is believed to have influenced Valdez's market in free agency, leading to his signing a two-year, $75 million contract with the Tigers, including a player option for 2028 and a mutual option for 2029.
Detroit Tigers manager A.J. Hinch, who previously managed Valdez with the Astros from 2018-2019, expressed full confidence in the pitcher's character and competitive spirit. Hinch highlighted Valdez's dedication, incredible preparation, and consistent performance, assuring that the team welcomes him with open arms. Tigers catcher Jake Rogers, who was a minor league teammate of Valdez in 2016 and 2017, also voiced his excitement about catching Valdez, emphasizing that he has never had any issues with him and looks forward to their reunion on the field. Valdez's clear communication and the unwavering support from his new team signal a fresh start, as he aims to channel his focus towards helping the Detroit Tigers achieve success in the upcoming 2026 season.
Valdez's candid explanation of the cross-up incident offers a valuable lesson in the complexities of professional sports, where intense pressure and high stakes can lead to misunderstandings. His willingness to address the past head-on, coupled with the Detroit Tigers' faith in his character and abilities, exemplifies the importance of transparency and support within a team environment. This situation reminds us that athletes are not just performers but individuals navigating immense scrutiny, and that genuine apologies and a clear path forward can help overcome perceived controversies.
