In one of the more strange developments surrounding the Houston Astros this offseason, there is more and more momentum starting to build that they could actually deal their ace Framber Valdez.

This started after a seemingly tame report that suggested some executives around the league were monitoring the situation to see if he became available.

Often, where there’s smoke there’s fire, and other insiders are now getting information about this situation.

Bob Nightengale of USA TODAY reported that even more teams are now seeing what the Astros might do with the the left-hander this offseason.

“The Houston Astros don’t plan to trade co-ace Framber Valdez, at least not this winter, but they are listening, with more than five teams already checking in on him,” he writes.

Both points in here stick out.

It feels obvious that Houston should not be outright looking to trade Valdez considering their “ready to win” roster. He’s been one of their most important pitchers the past few years, and besides this past postseason, has been a very solid playoff pitcher.

However, for a franchise desperately looking to stay in their financial range and rebuild their farm system, getting a massive return for the ace might be the best organizational decision for the long run.

Would it hurt them in 2024?

Probably.

Relying on a 41-year-old Justin Verlander at the top of the rotation is tough over the course of a 162-game season. Factor in the other volatile arms behind him and they could struggle.

But, getting prospects in return to set themselves up for an even longer championship window than what they currently have is also what general manager Dana Brown was hired to do.

Nightengale points out that the Astros might just be doing due diligence by listening to offers, but if they get something that they can’t refuse, don’t be surprised if Valdez is shipped out this offseason.