Framber Valdez is ready to get back on the mound—and this time, he's coming back with something to prove.

The Detroit Tigers left-hander is expected to start Wednesday against the New York Mets after serving a five-game suspension for intentionally throwing at Boston Red Sox shortstop Trevor Story. It's been a tough week for Valdez, who wasn't allowed in the clubhouse during games and had to watch from his hotel room.

"I felt pretty bad once I got the news because I had to stay away," Valdez said through Tigers interpreter Carlos Guillen. "I felt terrible. I felt sad leaving the clubhouse and leaving my teammates."

Valdez has maintained that the pitch wasn't intentional, and he still believes the suspension was unfair. But now, he's shifting his focus forward.

"It was not fair," he said. "But the suspension is over. I'm going back to the mound to help my team win."

Through eight starts this season, Valdez has posted a 4.57 ERA with 35 strikeouts and 15 walks over 43⅓ innings. While those numbers show room for improvement, his return adds depth to a Tigers rotation that's been navigating early-season challenges.

Manager A.J. Hinch emphasized the importance of keeping things simple for Valdez's comeback. "I just want him to come out of it ready to pitch," Hinch said. "It's hard not being around the team during games, but he's been able to get his work in. We've got him focused on the Mets—not making it any bigger deal than it is."

For Valdez, Wednesday's start is more than just another game. It's a chance to reset, reconnect with his team, and remind everyone why he's a key piece of Detroit's pitching staff.