Valdez is a 24-year-old former Los Angeles Dodgers prospect signed out of the Dominican Republic. The righty signed with the Dodgers in 2016 and debuted professionally in 2017. There, he was used as a starter and as a reliever.

Last year was Valez’s first season with the RailCats, where he primarily came out of the bullpen. He appeared in 37 games, logged 54.2 innings, punched out 58 hitters, and locked down a couple of saves. 

This next season will be Valdez’s seventh campaign in pro ball and his second with the RailCats.