Regarding Max Fried and the Braves’ decision on a qualifying offer, let’s just say this isn’t rocket science. Fried’s record practically decides for Atlanta. For the Braves, offering Fried a qualifying deal at $21.05 million for 2025 is practically mandatory.
Here’s why: Fried has not only been a rock-solid pitcher but he’s also been one of the most valuable arms in the game since 2019. With an 18.4 WAR during that time, he ranks as the 12th most valuable pitcher in Major League Baseball. That puts him just a hair above the likes of Charlie Morton, who sits at 14th with 16.6 WAR.
Fried’s resume is a pitcher’s dream. With a career ERA/FIP/xFIP line of 3.07/3.29/3.33 over 884.1 innings, he’s been the kind of consistent, top-tier lefty every team wants in its rotation. And for Braves fans, memories of his six scoreless innings in the decisive Game 6 of the 2021 World Series are still fresh. This player has proven he can bring his A-game when it counts the most.
Here’s where it gets interesting, Max Fried has two options. He could accept the qualifying offer, taking a solid one-year payday that keeps him in Atlanta for another season. Or, he could hit the open market. The Braves would at least get some draft pick compensation if he chooses free agency, which is better than losing him for nothing. But let’s face it, there’s no shortage of teams willing to offer big bucks for a player of his caliber—especially when you consider his numbers.
But here’s the wild card: Fried’s recent injury history. Injuries have dogged him over the past two seasons, and that could make him think twice about declining the qualifying offer. A one-year deal could be a way to prove he’s still that elite arm, with the goal of landing an even more lucrative multi-year contract in 2026.
Typically, the Braves don’t let their core players reach free agency without at least trying for an extension. The exception to that rule was Marcell Ozuna, but Fried’s role in the rotation puts him in a different league. Some might speculate that his emotional reaction after his last home start suggests he’s leaning toward an exit, but there’s no official word yet.
In the end, this decision is a calculated one for Max Fried and a “no-brainer” for the Braves. If he stays, they get another year of elite pitching at a reasonable cost. If he goes, they’ll pocket some compensation and shift their focus to developing the next arm. Either way, Atlanta Braves fans are in for a wild offseason while wondering just where Fried’s future will land.
