The Houston Astros are in a tight race in the American League East. Framber Valdez took the mound against the Seattle Mariners on Saturday, giving up a record-breaking home run to Cal Raleigh . On a team accustomed to dominance each season, Astros manager Joe Espada has his work cut out for him. Houston's general manager, Dana Brown, faces the same challenge.

The Astros are unique compared to almost every other team in Major League Baseball. Brown built a dynasty that stretched over almost a decade by choosing when to let players walk away in free agency. He made smart moves when he let go of Carlos Correa, even though Houston reacquired him at the trade deadline this season. Brown and the front office could do the same with Valdez.

As a pure pitcher, Valdez is one of the best ML

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