July 31, 2021 8:45 AM : Valdez (7-2) allowed two runs on four hits and three walks while striking out six over five innings to pick up the win over the Giants on Friday.
Analysis: Valdez appeared to have solved his command issues early in the game, setting down the first seven batters on 22 pitches, but the rest of the third inning became a grind. He walked the eighth batter, Thairo Estrada, after getting ahead 1-2, then issued a four-pitch walk to pitcher Kevin Gausman. Both scored to tie the game, and Valdez expended 36 pitches in the inning. The left-hander was gone after five frames and 89 pitches but earned his second straight win. Since July 1, Valdez has walked 24 batters in 33.1 innings. His next turn comes Thursday, the kickoff to a four-game set at home against the Twins.