Max Fried Joins Yankees in Record-Breaking $218M Deal
It’s official—well, almost. Two-time All-Star Max Fried is heading to the Bronx. According to sources, Fried and the New York Yankees have agreed to an eight-year, $218 million contract, pending a physical. This deal is not just big—it’s historic. It’s the largest guarantee ever handed out to a left-handed pitcher in Major League Baseball history. Let that sink in for a moment.
For the Yankees, this is yet another massive financial commitment. The deal marks the 12th time in franchise history that the team has handed out a contract worth at least $100 million. That’s more than any other team in MLB history, breaking a tie with the Los Angeles Dodgers. If there’s one thing the Yankees are known for, it’s their willingness to spend big to chase championships.
Fried’s Dominance on the Mound
Fried, who is 30 years old, has spent the last seven seasons blossoming into one of the best pitchers in the National League with the Atlanta Braves. Over the past five seasons, he’s posted a stellar 2.81 ERA, which is the best in the majors during that span. For context, that’s just ahead of Corbin Burnes, who sits at 2.88. Fried’s consistency and ability to keep hitters off balance have made him a coveted ace.
What makes Fried so special? It’s not overpowering velocity or jaw-dropping strikeout numbers. Instead, it’s his artistry on the mound. His command, pitch mix, and ability to go deep into games have made him a dream acquisition for teams in need of a reliable Opening Day starter. While his fastball is considered below average by some models, his curveball and slider are elite weapons. His ability to locate pitches and keep hitters guessing has been the key to his success.
Postseason Highs and Lows
Fried’s postseason track record has been a bit of a rollercoaster, but there’s one performance that stands out above the rest. In Game 6 of the 2021 World Series, Fried delivered six shutout innings to help the Braves clinch the championship. That moment alone cemented his legacy in Atlanta. It’s worth noting that Fried’s journey to stardom wasn’t always smooth. After being drafted seventh overall in 2012, he underwent Tommy John surgery and struggled early in his career in the San Diego Padres’ farm system. It wasn’t until he was traded to Atlanta in a deal for Justin Upton that his potential began to shine through.
Can Fried Handle the Workload?
One of the biggest questions surrounding Fried is whether he can evolve into a workhorse starter. His career-high in innings pitched came in 2022 when he threw 185.1 innings. In 2024, with Braves co-ace Spencer Strider sidelined after Tommy John surgery, Fried stepped up again. He posted a 3.25 ERA over 174.1 innings, struck out 166 batters, walked 57, and allowed just 13 home runs. He also led MLB with two complete games. His year-by-year ERAs over the four prior seasons—2.25, 3.04, 2.48, and 2.55—show just how consistent he’s been.
The Yankees’ Rotation Gets Even Deeper
The Yankees weren’t the only team in the hunt for Fried. The Boston Red Sox, Toronto Blue Jays, and Texas Rangers were also reportedly in the mix. But in the end, the Yankees landed their man, adding him to what is already one of the deepest rotations in baseball. With Fried in the fold, the Yankees are sending a clear message: they’re all-in on chasing another World Series title.
Historic Payday for a Lefty
Fried’s $218 million deal surpasses the $217 million contract that David Price signed with the Red Sox in 2015. The only other left-handed pitcher to receive a $200 million contract is the Dodgers’ Clayton Kershaw, who signed for $215 million. Fried now joins an exclusive club of lefties who’ve cashed in big.
What’s Next?
As the Yankees prepare for the 2024 season, all eyes will be on Fried to see if he can live up to the hype and the hefty price tag. With his track record of success and the Yankees’ deep pockets, this partnership has the potential to be a game-changer. But as we all know, nothing is guaranteed in baseball. For now, Yankees fans can dream of October glory with Fried leading the charge.
Originally Written by: Jeff Passan
