Max Fried, a prominent left-handed pitcher and two-time All-Star, has reportedly signed an eight-year contract worth $218 million with the New York Yankees, marking the largest guaranteed sum ever for a left-handed pitcher. This deal, still pending a physical, represents the Yankees’ twelfth contract exceeding $100 million, establishing them as the leading team in this category, surpassing the Los Angeles Dodgers.
At 30 years old, Fried showed remarkable progression during his seven years with the Atlanta Braves, posting an exceptional 2.81 ERA over the last five seasons, making him one of the top pitchers in the National League. His effectiveness on the mound, while not solely reliant on overpowering hitters, stems from his ability to pitch deep into games, a highly sought-after trait for teams looking for a solid Opening Day starter.
Fried’s acquisition occurs shortly after the Yankees lost out on outfielder Juan Soto, who joined the Mets under a historic contract. Many teams, including the Boston Red Sox, Toronto Blue Jays, and Texas Rangers, were also in pursuit of Fried, emphasizing his value in the league.
Joining an already formidable Yankees rotation that includes stars like Gerrit Cole and Carlos Rodon, Fried’s $218 million contract eclipses David Price’s previous record of $217 million set in 2015, positioning him among only a few left-handed pitchers to receive contracts exceeding $200 million.
Despite some inconsistency in his career postseason performances, Fried demonstrated his capabilities during Atlanta’s World Series run in 2021, when he delivered six shutout innings in the decisive Game 6. He transitioned to the Braves as a key player in a trade for Justin Upton, overcoming earlier challenges and injuries to establish himself as a leading pitcher.
The deal underscores Fried’s exceptional skill set, particularly his curveball and slider, which have contributed to his impressive performance metrics. Additionally, his ability to command pitches, despite having a lower-rated fastball, speaks to his success on the field.
While questions remain about Fried’s enduring effectiveness and ability to pitch significant innings, he has showcased resilience, having pitched 174⅓ innings in 2024 with a 3.25 ERA while leading Major League Baseball in complete games.
In summary, Fried’s contract elevates him to prominence within the league, reflecting both his impressive track record and the Yankees’ commitment to building a competitive roster moving forward. As he joins a rich tradition within the franchise, fans can eagerly anticipate the impact he will have on the team’s aspirations.