The New York Yankees are prioritizing the re-signing of outfielder Juan Soto, but general manager Brian Cashman has other tasks to address this winter. One of these is securing a top-tier pitcher, with Atlanta Braves’ ace Max Fried emerging as a key target.
Following Blake Snell’s five-year, $182 million deal with the Los Angeles Dodgers, Fried stands out as the next top left-handed pitcher available in free agency. A two-time All-Star and three-time Gold Glove winner, Fried has been a consistent ace for the Braves since becoming a full-time starter in 2019, posting a 71-31 record with a 3.06 ERA, 1.14 WHIP, and 797 strikeouts in 824 2/3 innings.
His postseason experience, including a role in Atlanta’s 2021 World Series championship, also adds value, though his playoff ERA is 5.10 over 67 innings. The Yankees have reportedly made progress in their pursuit of the 30-year-old pitcher, withup meeting.
Fried is expected to sign a lucrative contract, with MLB Trade Rumors predicting a six-year, $156 million deal, though that could rise depending on market conditions. The Y ESPN’s Michael Kay mentioning a promising 90-minute Zoom call and an upcoming follow-ankees will face competition from other teams, including the Boston Red Sox, potentially fueling a bidding war between rivals.
