The Houston Astros announced Friday that All-Star left-hander Framber Valdez will start Game 2 of the World Series on Saturday against the visiting Philadelphia Phillies.
The 28-year-old Valdez went 17-6 with a 2.82 ERA in 31 regular-season starts this season. He led the American League in innings pitched (201 1/3) and complete games (three).
“It means a lot for me and a lot for my career,” Valdez said through a translator of being tabbed for the start.
Valdez will oppose Phillies right-hander Zack Wheeler (12-7, 2.82 ERA in 26 starts).
Valdez is 1-0 with a 1.42 ERA in two postseason starts this October. Overall, he is 5-2 with a 3.83 ERA in 11 postseason appearances (10 starts).
But he was roughed up in two World Series starts last year, going 0-1 with a 19.29 ERA against the Atlanta Braves. He gave up 10 runs and 12 hits — including four homers — in just 4 2/3 innings while starting Games 1 and 5 of a series the Astros lost in six games.
“I think last year my emotions got the better of me during the World Series,” Valdez said. “I think the key for this year is just continue doing what I’ve been doing, try not to let the game get away from me and I think we’ll get good results there.”
Wheeler, 32, is 1-1 with a 1.78 ERA in four career postseason starts, all coming this season for the Phillies.
The World Series opens Friday night in Houston with Justin Verlander starting for the Astros against fellow right-hander Aaron Nola of Philadelphia.
–Field Level Media
