The Houston Astros signed their ace, Framber Valdez, but not to the deal that many believed would eventually happen.

Houston left-hander Framber Valdez also reached a deal, an $18 million, one-year contract. Chicago Cubs outfielder Kyle Tucker asked for the highest amount among players who swapped at $17.5 million.

Vladimir Guerrero Jr. and the Blue Jays avoided salary arbitration with a $28.5 million, one-year deal, while Framber Valdez and the Astros reached an $18 million deal.

January 10 - The Houston Astros came to terms on one-year contracts for all eight of their arbitration-eligible players on Thursday, including star left-handed pitcher Framber Valdez. The Astros ...

Houston left-hander Framber Valdez also was among 148 players reaching deals, getting an $18 million, one-year contract. Chicago Cubs outfielder Kyle Tucker asked for the highest amount among 17 ...

(AP Photo/Seth Wenig, File) Houston Astros’ Kyle Tucker watches his solo home run during the ... (AP Photo/Jeff Chiu, File) Houston Astros starting pitcher Framber Valdez throws during the first inning of a baseball game against the Seattle Mariners ...