Yankees Land Max Fried: A Quality Addition to a Strong Rotation
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Why the Yankees targeted Max Fried and how he fits in their rotation
The New York Yankees made a significant move in free agency, securing the services of starting pitcher Max Fried. After losing their second-best player, GM Brian Cashman wasted no time, signing Fried to an eight-year, $218 million contract. This acquisition bolsters the Yankees’ rotation, putting them in a strong position in the American League.
Fried: A Quietly Dominant Pitcher
Fried has consistently been one of the best starting pitchers in baseball over the past five years. Despite missing 15-20 starts due to blisters, he ranks 11th in fWAR since 2020. He boasts a devastating curveball, his primary off-speed pitch, which generates significant swing-and-misses. Fried’s arsenal also includes a wide selection of pitches, empowering him to keep hitters off balance.
Fried’s reliance on command, changing speeds, and diverse pitches rather than sheer velocity makes him a valuable asset. In an era where pitchers’ velocity often declines in their 30s, Fried’s approach suggests he could maintain his value throughout his contract.
Fitting into the Yankees Rotation
Fried immediately slots in as the Yankees’ No. 2 starter, providing a reliable 3-4 WAR contributor. The Yankees now possess a formidable rotation on paper, potentially leading to a trade of a starter like Nestor Cortes, who is a year away from free agency, for offensive support.
While no player can fully replace the loss of Juan Soto, Fried represents a significant upgrade. Despite a brief reverse platoon split in 2024, attributed to a high BABIP by left-handed batters, Fried has historically excelled against both left and right-handed hitters with his arsenal of pitches.
The Angels’ Next Move
With Fried off the market, the Los Angeles Angels face a pressing need to find high-end pitching. They must address this void if they aim for relevance in 2024, a year punctuated by the departure of Shohei Ohtani. Options like Jack Flaherty, Corbin Burnes, and even Sean Manaea become increasingly attractive.
It’s time for the Angels to invest in talent alongside Mike Trout. The team’s draft strategy focused on college hitters suggests they won’t pursue a full rebuild. However, without significant upgrades, continuing the current trajectory could be detrimental to the franchise’s future.
(Photo: Dale Zanine/ USA Today)
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