Yankees’ Offseason Plan B Takes Shape: The Max Fried Era Begins

Max Fried: The Perfect Addition Max Fried, a two-time All-Star and former Atlanta Braves standout, is making headlines for more than just the size of his contract. Since the start of the 2020 season, Fried holds the lowest ERA in baseball—a testament to his effectiveness on the mound. Unlike many other frontline pitchers who rely heavily on strikeouts, Fried excels at avoiding hard contact and generating groundouts, which are crucial skills for pitching in Yankee Stadium. His ability to maintain pinpoint control further solidifies his status as a valuable asset for the Yankees. What’s Next for the Yankees? Having secured Fried, the Yankees now turn their attention to other key areas of their roster. With a solidified rotation, the front office is expected to focus on bolstering the bullpen and addressing offensive gaps. The Yankees may explore trading prospects to acquire a power bat or seek out free agents who can add depth to their lineup. Additionally, developing younger talent from within the organization will be critical as the Yankees aim to create a sustainable winning culture. The Impact of Fried’s Signing The ramifications of Fried's addition extend beyond just the pitching rotation. His presence is likely to boost team morale and set a competitive tone for the season. Moreover, the Yankees are sending a clear message to their fan base: they are committed to winning. The investment in a top-tier pitcher like Fried illustrates the organization’s willingness to spend and improve, which could entice other free agents to consider New York as a viable destination.