Here's why Framber Valdez is the key to another Astros World Series

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Per The Athletic's Chandler Rome, Framber Valdez plans on both he and the catcher calling pitches this year. He said he “wants to feel more comfortable,” adding “not that I don't feel comfortable with the catchers, but I want to feel comfortable and throw the pitches with more conviction…to feel like I have the game in my hands.”

Is that a good thing? Either way, it seems like a return to form for Framber Valdez is the biggest “what if” for the 2024 Houston Astros.

Be sure to watch the video above as ESPN Houston's Paul Gallant & Joe George discuss.

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The Astros haven't closed the door on a Bregman return. Composite Getty Image.

As we begin another week of free agency, Alex Bregman remains unsigned, but one of the Astros reported targets Anthony Santander has a new home.

Santander has reportedly agreed to a 5-year, $92.5 million contract with the Blue Jays. Many were hoping that the Astros would make a play for the switch hitting power hitter, as he would have provided some serious thump.

Now it appears the Astros will enter the 2025 season with one of the weakness outfields in baseball when it comes to offense.

Speaking of Bregman, Astros manager Joe Espada recently told Fox 26's Nate Griffin that the team is still in contact with Breggy despite General Manger Dana Brown telling the media the team decided to pivot after talks stalled with Bregman's camp.

If there still remains a possibility of Bregman returning, one has to wonder if the Astros reported 6-year, $156 million contract offer is still on the table after the club traded for Isaac Paredes to fill the hole at third base. And if they do make a deal with Bregman, what do they do with Paredes?

Also, now that we know how much money Santander commanded on the open market. Which signing would have benefited the Astros the most? Santander at 5-years, $92.5 million, or Bregman at 6-years, $156 million?

Don't miss the video above as we discuss the possibility of Bregman returning, the Dodgers' absurd free agency (that now involves even more deferred money), Billy Wagner, and much more!

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