Max Fried, the talented left-handed pitcher, has officially signed an eight-year contract worth $218 million with the New York Yankees, as reported by sources. This agreement represents not only the largest financial commitment ever made to a left-handed pitcher but also marks the Yankees’ 12th contract valued at over $100 million in their history, setting a new record for the most such contracts given by any team, surpassing the Los Angeles Dodgers.
The 30-year-old Fried has transitioned into one of the premier pitchers in Major League Baseball during his impressive seven-year tenure with the Atlanta Braves. He has earned All-Star honors twice and boasts a remarkably low 2.81 ERA over the past five seasons, placing him at the top of the league ahead of other elite pitchers. While he may not have the overpowering fastball that some may prefer, his skillful pitching and stamina make him a valuable addition for teams looking for a reliable starter.
The timing of Fried’s signing comes shortly after the Yankees faced a blow with the departure of outfielder Juan Soto, who joined the New York Mets on an unprecedented contract. Now, with Fried, the Yankees enhance their already formidable pitching rotation, which includes stars like Gerrit Cole and Carlos Rodon.
Fried’s notable contract exceeds the previous record for a left-handed pitcher set by David Price, who signed a seven-year deal worth $217 million in 2015. Fried’s agreement also positions him as the fifth-largest contract for a pitcher in history. Despite some inconsistency in his postseason performances, his contributions, including six shutout innings in the Braves’ 2021 World Series victory, underscore his potential to thrive under pressure.
In 2024, Fried demonstrated his capabilities with a solid 3.25 ERA over 174⅓ innings, showcasing his ability to strike out hitters while limiting home runs. Moving forward, the Yankees will rely on him to potentially elevate his game further and become a consistently prolific starter.
This major contract not only highlights Fried’s immense talent but also signifies the Yankees’ commitment to building a championship-caliber team. As one of the best pitchers in the league, Fried’s presence on the roster brings both experience and skill, promising exciting prospects for the upcoming seasons in New York.
For fans and stakeholders, Fried’s signing represents hope and potential for a competitive Yankees team poised to reclaim its prominence in MLB.