The Atlanta Braves have been as consistent as it gets in Major League Baseball since the 1990s. They made the postseason a staggering 24 times in 33 seasons.
Their 2021 World Series victory solidified their status as perennial contenders. The franchise is now facing questions about its championship aspirations, sparked by former pitcher Max Fried’s departure to the New York Yankees.
Fried was an essential part of the Braves’ postseason runs since his rookie year in 2018. The ace just left Atlanta this offseason for a lucrative eight-year, $218 million contract with the Yankees.
While player movement in professional sports is routine, it was Fried’s pointed remarks during his introductory press conference that ignited controversy. When he stated, “Winning is a big priority for me,” the comment struck a nerve with Braves fans and baseball pundits alike.
The implication seemed clear: Fried doubted the Braves’ commitment to winning it all. While the Braves have made the playoffs every year of Fried’s career, his new team, the Yankees, has struggled to advance deep into October during the same period.
New York’s 2024 World Series appearance was its first in 15 years, ending in a five-game loss to the Dodgers.
Braves Fans Were Fuming With Shots Taken at Liberty Media
Braves fans, unsurprisingly, took Fried’s comments personally. FanSided reporter Mark Powell captured the sentiment, calling the remarks “a slap in the face.” Some fans even turned Fried’s critique into a broader indictment of Liberty Media, the conglomerate that owns the Braves.
One fan on social media bluntly stated that Fried’s words revealed the organization’s lack of focus on securing another championship.
There may be a kernel of truth to Fried’s concerns. While Atlanta has secured long-term deals for its young stars, critics argue the team’s offseason activity has been underwhelming.
The Braves have remained a playoff-caliber team, but their postseason exits—most recently in the Wild Card round—have left fans wanting more. Whether Fried’s departure becomes a rallying cry for the team or a symbol of unfulfilled potential remains to be seen.
One thing is certain: Atlanta now has something to prove, not just to its fans but to a former ace who once helped them reach the pinnacle of the sport.
Braves let some other stars leave. The days of having pitchers that got strikes called on pitchs well outside the strike zone are over. Now players like Freeman do not even get a real bid to stay’ It’s sad.
Really liked Max Fried so hope he finds a good place with the Yankees. Was looking forward to seeing him play with the Braves in 2025.