Max Fried, a two-time All-Star pitcher, has reportedly finalized a significant eight-year contract worth $218 million with the New York Yankees, marking the largest guaranteed deal ever for a left-handed pitcher. This monumental agreement is pending a physical exam and adds to the Yankees’ impressive history of high-value contracts, becoming the 12th deal exceeding $100 million and breaking a tie with the Los Angeles Dodgers for the most such contracts in Major League Baseball.
At 30 years old, Fried has established himself as one of the leading pitchers in the National League during his seven-year tenure with the Atlanta Braves. Over the past five seasons, he has maintained a stellar 2.81 ERA, ranking him tops among all Major League starting pitchers, just ahead of Corbin Burnes. Fried may not overpower hitters with sheer velocity, but his exceptional command and ability to pitch deep into games have made him a highly sought-after starter. The Yankees secured his services amid competition from teams such as the Boston Red Sox, Toronto Blue Jays, and Texas Rangers.
Fried joins a robust Yankees rotation that already features notable arms like Gerrit Cole, Carlos Rodon, and Nestor Cortes. This monumental deal exceeds those of previous left-handed pitchers, including David Price’s $217 million contract with the Red Sox in 2015 and Clayton Kershaw’s $215 million pact with the Dodgers.
Although Fried’s performance in postseason games has varied, he made a lasting impression in the 2021 World Series with six shutout innings in Game 6, showcasing his potential in high-pressure situations. Drafted as the 7th overall pick in 2012, Fried’s career has been characterized by his strong command and mastery of pitches, particularly his curveball and slider.
The deal highlights Fried’s consistent performance; in 2024, he posted a 3.25 ERA across 174⅓ innings while leading Major League Baseball with two complete games. As the Yankees look to bolster their rotation, Fried’s addition is seen as an optimistic move forward, aiming for championship contention in the seasons to come.
This contract not only signifies Fried’s individual achievement but also reflects the Yankees’ commitment to building a competitive team in a challenging landscape of professional baseball. The future looks promising as Fried integrates into a talented roster, potentially elevating the team’s pursuit of another World Series title.