Free agency buzz is heating up, and predictions are flying, with Atlanta Braves ace Max Fried pegged as a possible fit in the American League East.
According to Bleacher Report’s Joel Reuter, Fried could soon be sporting Baltimore Orioles orange and black, stepping in to replace Corbin Burnes. In an intriguing twist, Reuter also speculates that Burnes might be heading out west to the Los Angeles Dodgers, giving the MLB offseason a fresh wave of speculation about major pitching shakeups.
In his forecast, Reuter positioned Fried as a compelling alternative if the Orioles don’t re-sign Burnes, writing that if “re-signing Burnes is still Plan A, making a run at Fried is a suitable Plan B.” With Burnes possibly on the move, the Orioles’ need for a strong lefty arm could push them toward Fried. Fried’s impressive numbers could give Baltimore the boost they need as they continue their bid for AL East dominance.
The Orioles’ situation mirrors the Braves’ in several key ways. Both teams have significant talent in their starting rotations and potential internal options for filling gaps. However, Reuter points out the Orioles may not want to rely solely on in-house depth if they’re serious about winning now. He warns that the O’s “can’t simply hope their in-house options are good enough,” stressing the importance of adding a seasoned arm.
Fried would certainly fit the bill. Known for his consistency and poise, a healthy Fried would smoothly transition into an AL rotation. His 2023 numbers are impressive: in 29 starts, he managed a 3.25 ERA with a 1.16 WHIP and struck out 166 batters over 174 1/3 innings. For comparison, Burnes made 32 starts, logged 181 strikeouts and 48 walks, and allowed 22 home runs across 194 1/3 innings.
Adjusting Fried’s numbers to a hypothetical 32 starts, Fried would rack up 183 strikeouts, 62 walks, and allow just 14 home runs over 192 1/3 innings, indicating he could offer the Orioles comparable production with a slightly lower home run rate. Not only does Fried offer reliability, but he also brings experience as a proven postseason performer—something the Orioles could capitalize on.
Baltimore has missed the mark with some free-agent pitchers in the past. This is seen with Jack Flaherty’s underwhelming stint. Blake Snell is another top free-agent option that brings star power. Reuter notes that Snell represents a “boom-or-bust” risk that might not align with Baltimore’s win-now focus. On the other hand, Fried offers a steadier profile with fewer question marks.
Watching Fried head to the AL East would be bittersweet for Braves fans, as he’s been an anchor in Atlanta’s rotation. However, for Baltimore, a pitcher like Fried could be the final piece to solidify a rotation that keeps them competitive in a stacked division.
