Max Fried, a two-time All-Star pitcher, has signed an impressive eight-year, $218 million contract with the New York Yankees, marking the largest guaranteed deal ever for a left-handed pitcher in Major League Baseball history, according to reports from ESPN’s Jeff Passan.
This strategic acquisition comes just two days after the Yankees were outbid by the New York Mets in the pursuit of top free-agent slugger Juan Soto. The setback with Soto prompted the Yankees to activate their contingency plan in free agency, and Fried’s signing represents an essential move in that strategy. With Fried on board, the Yankees now boast a formidable pitching rotation that includes the 2023 Cy Young award winner, Gerrit Cole.
Fried, who opted out of a one-year qualifying offer of $21.05 million from the Atlanta Braves, has been a pivotal player since his major league debut in August 2017. Over his career, he has amassed 71 wins and, in the past season, delivered 174 1/3 innings with a commendable 3.25 ERA and 166 strikeouts. Battling some injury setbacks this year, he has still made significant contributions, including a complete game and coming close to a no-hitter against the Mets.
For the Braves, Fried’s departure will result in draft-pick compensation, as he had signed a one-year, $15 million contract leading into the 2024 season. His accolades include being a part of the Braves’ World Series championship team in 2021 and earning prestigious awards such as a Silver Slugger and three Gold Gloves from 2020-2022.
While the addition of Fried is a vital step for the Yankees, it likely sets the stage for further roster adjustments. The team currently has six starting pitchers, including Cole and Carlos Rodón. As they aim to streamline their rotation, fans can anticipate potential trades, especially involving players like Clarke Schmidt and Nestor Cortes Jr., who are young and cost-effective.
This signing signifies not just a shift in the Yankees’ approach to building their team but also instills hope among their fan base as they seek to enhance their pitching strength. As the Yankees look to rebound from recent disappointments, they are making calculated moves to ensure a competitive edge moving forward.
Overall, the Yankees are taking a proactive approach to navigate the offseason and improve their chances in the upcoming season, which could lead to positive results on the field.