Let’s talk about one of the biggest moves of the MLB offseason, Max Fried heading to the Bronx. After eight stellar seasons with the Atlanta Braves, the lefty ace is now donning pinstripes, thanks to a massive eight-year, $218 million deal with the New York Yankees.
And let’s be real, this is exactly the kind of move Brian Cashman needed to make. The Yankees had a disappointing 2024 season, and if they’re serious about bouncing back in 2025, upgrading the starting rotation was a must. Enter Max Fried.
Now, Yankees fans already knew they were getting an elite arm. Fried’s 73-36 record and 3.07 ERA with the Braves tell you everything you need to know about his talent.
Pairing him with Gerrit Cole? That’s a dream 1-2 punch, the kind of rotation upgrade that turns contenders into champions. But what’s really catching people’s attention isn’t just Fried’s pitching—it’s his presence.
Max Fried Has Instant Impact in the Yankees Clubhouse
When people talk about Fried, they usually rave about that devastating curveball that leaves hitters shaking their heads as they walk back to the dugout.
Or they mention his bulldog mentality, the same fire that helped lead Atlanta to a World Series title in 2021. But for Yankees skipper Aaron Boone, it’s something else entirely—how Fried carries himself.
During a recent press conference, Boone had nothing but praise for his new ace. “He has made it a point to really interact with his teammates and get to know everyone,” Boone said on Thursday.
“It’s been how you hope a big free agent acquisition is coming in. He seems happy and comfortable.”
And that right there is huge. Some players take time to settle in when they switch teams, especially after spending their whole career in one organization.
But Fried? He’s jumped right in, embracing his new clubhouse and making his presence felt.
Boone sounds downright thrilled, and if Fried’s early interactions are any indication, he’s not just going to be a dominant force on the mound—he’s going to be a leader.
Meanwhile In Atlanta
Of course, while the Yankees celebrate their new ace, the Braves feel the sting of his departure.
Losing both Fried and veteran right-hander Charlie Morton this offseason has left some big holes in Atlanta’s rotation, and so far, the plan seems to be filling them internally.
Young arms like AJ Smith-Shawver, Ian Anderson, and Bryce Elder are expected to step up, but let’s be honest—none of them are Max Fried.
The Braves knew this was coming. Alex Anthopoulos reportedly backed off negotiations once Fried declined Atlanta’s qualifying offer.
It was clear from the start that Fried’s price tag would be too high for the Braves to match. But that doesn’t make it any easier to accept.
Atlanta’s front office and fans are no doubt wondering what could have been if they had found a way to keep Fried around.
The Bottom Line
For Yankees fans, this is shaping up to be one of the most exciting signings in recent memory.
Not only do they have another ace to pair with Cole, but they’ve got a guy who’s already showing he belongs in New York. For the Braves, it’s a painful but inevitable loss.
They’ll move forward with their young arms, but watching Fried thrive in pinstripes is going to be tough.
One thing’s for sure—when Fried takes the mound for the Yankees in 2025, all eyes will be on him. And if his presence so far is any indication, he’s ready for the challenge.
