The Houston Astros’ offseason could really take an unexpected turn if they do in fact decide to trade their ace Framber Valdez this offseason like Ken Rosenthal of The Athletic floated they might do.

According to him, multiple teams across the league are monitoring the situation as they fully believe the left-hander could be acquired for the right price.

Why would the Astros move him as they’re in a “win now” window?

Their financial constraints present a major challenge for the front office to make upgrades to this roster. They have been stuck sitting dormant while others across the league have been ultra-aggressive.

Houston had been linked as a possible suitor for Chicago White Sox ace Dylan Cease when it was reported he had been placed on the trade block. The salary concerns and front office wanting to rebuild their pipeline made those connections fizzle out.

But, could they actually move Valdez in a deal to acquire Cease?

Financially, it would be better for the Astros.

Their ace is projected to make $12.8 million this season with one more year of club control. Cease, the AL Cy Young runner-up in 2022, is projected to make $8.3 million in 2024 with another year of club control as well.

This would free up over $4 million for Houston to either stay under that tax threshold, or go and get another cheaper bullpen option this season.

It seems unlikely that the White Sox would do a like-for-like trade without getting some prospects in return since they seem keen on rebuilding. But with two players in similar contract situations, the Astros shouldn’t have to give up much more to land Cease.

Of course, this is all speculation.

Rosenthal’s report just opens up another world of possibilities that could expand the possibilities of what Houston gets done this offseason.