The New York Yankees bolstered their already impressive rotation on Tuesday by signing All-Star left-handed pitcher Max Fried.
According to ESPN’s Jeff Passan, Fried inked an eight-year, $218 million contract, setting a new record for the largest deal ever given to a left-handed pitcher in MLB history.
Previously, only two left-handers crossed the $200 million threshold: David Price, with a seven-year, $217 million deal from the Boston Red Sox in 2015, and Clayton Kershaw, who signed a seven-year, $215 million deal with the Los Angeles Dodgers in 2014.
In 2024, Fried made 29 starts for the Atlanta Braves, finishing with an 11-10 record, a 3.25 ERA, 166 strikeouts, and two complete games, earning him his second career All-Star selection.
The Yankees’ acquisition of Fried comes shortly after losing out on superstar slugger Juan Soto, who opted to join their cross-town rivals, the New York Mets. Despite this, the Yankees now boast one of the most formidable rotations in baseball. Alongside Fried, they feature Cy Young Award winner Gerrit Cole, All-Stars Carlos Rodon, Nestor Cortes, Marcus Stroman, and 2024 AL Rookie of the Year Luis Gil.
Fried, who debuted in the majors with the Braves in 2017, spent his entire career with Atlanta before this move. His career record stands at 73–36, with a 3.07 ERA and 863 strikeouts. Over the years, he has garnered numerous accolades, including one All-MLB First Team selection, two All-MLB Second Team honors, three Gold Glove Awards, and a 2021 World Series championship ring.
