Why Is Framber Valdez Called La Grasa?

Why Is Framber Valdez Called La Grasa? Unraveling the Swaggy Ace’s Nickname

Framber Valdez, the talented pitcher for the Houston Astros, has a nickname that has taken the clubhouse by storm. Known as “La Grasa,” which translates to “grease” or “fat” in English, the moniker holds a different meaning in Dominican culture. In the Dominican Republic, “grasa” is reserved for individuals who exude supreme swag and style, and Valdez certainly has it in abundance.

Valdez’s love for fashion, shoes, chains, and cologne is well-known among his teammates. He takes great pride in his appearance and dressing well, a fact not lost on his fellow Latin players. The nickname “La Grasa” was affectionately given to him by his four Dominican teammates, and it has stuck ever since.

In Dominican culture, the term “grasa” is used to celebrate acquiring something really good, whether it’s a new perfume, fancy shoes, or a stylish accessory. Valdez embodies this spirit with his extensive collection of over 200 pairs of shoes, including 50 at his Houston residence alone. He also adorns himself with gold chains during his starts and is often seen sporting luxurious Rolexes.

The genesis of the “Grasa” nickname may date back to last July when Valdez earned his first American League All-Star selection. He changed his hairstyle to braids before the 2022 Midsummer Classic, which he referred to as his new “show flow.” The transformation seemed to solidify his status as a stylish and confident player, earning him even more admiration from his teammates.

But Valdez’s journey to becoming “La Grasa” was not without its challenges. In his early major league seasons, he battled inconsistency and struggled to find his footing. It was only after he sought help from a sports psychologist that he was able to better harness his emotions and improve his focus on the mound. The result was a remarkable transformation from erratic to established, earning him the title of ace in every sense of the word.

Valdez’s evolution as a pitcher has been remarkable. He now boasts an arsenal of three or four pitches, depending on the night, making him a formidable force on the mound. His sinker, in particular, has been a standout pitch with a run value that ranks among the best in the league.

Beyond his on-field performance, Valdez has also worked on his fielding, an essential aspect of his game due to his groundball-inducing pitching style. The Astros’ team-first culture has played a significant role in Valdez’s development, as he has embraced selflessness and prioritized the shared goal of the team.

As Valdez’s success and earnings have grown, so has his ability to indulge in the finer things he loves, such as designer shoes from brands like Nikes, Louboutins, and Diors. His nickname “La Grasa” has become a testament to his passion for fashion and swag, and he wears it with pride.

The Dominican pitcher’s journey from a talented but inconsistent player to the confident and stylish ace has captured the hearts of his teammates and fans alike. As he continues to excel on the mound, Framber Valdez, or “La Grasa,” will undoubtedly leave a lasting impression on the baseball world with both his performances and his impeccable sense of style.