Everyone makes promises to themselves when they are children about what they will do when they become rich and famous. Houston Astros pitcher Framber Valdez was no different, as he pledged to build a new church in his hometown if he had the means to do so.
This offseason, Valdez is getting to live up to his promise. He has begun working on the construction of a church in the Dominican Republic, rolling up his sleeves and and being a part of the work crew.
Astros LHP Framber Valdez working on the construction of a church in DR.
— Héctor Gómez (@hgomez27) December 25, 2021
Valdez is funding and building the church to fulfill a pledge he made as a teenager. “I don’t get emotional because the community praises me,’’ he said. “I get emotional because it’s me who is doing this.’’ pic.twitter.com/XDaBlR6yO6
Houston Astros pitcher Framber Valdez fulfills childhood promise
Oftentimes, people donate their money, allowing others to do the work while receiving the accolades. Valdez is different – he is taking an active part in the construction while paying for the new church.
It is also a personal matter for Valdez. He is putting his money, and time, where his mouth was, fulfilling that promise made so long ago. He is giving back in a meaningful way, making sure that he can provide for his home.
This may not be the last time he gets that chance. Valdez began to establish himself as an emerging star for the Astros last year, posting a 3.14 ERA and a 1.248 WHiP in his 134.2 innings, striking out 125 batters with 58 walks. He did an impressive job of keeping the ball in the yard as well, allowing just 12 homers.
Houston will need to count on Valdez for the 2022 season. While Justin Verlander did return, he is hardly a given moving forward. The rest of the rotation is filled with question marks. Valdez is not a given either, but he will be counted on to serve as a key part of the rotation. If he succeeds, Valdez may be able to give back to his community in plenty of other ways as well.
Houston Astros pitcher Framber Valdez fulfilled a childhood promise as he is building a church in the Dominican Republic. His dreams have come true.