The Atlanta Braves’ offseason hinges on a decision that could shape their future: what to do about Max Fried. The left-hander, widely regarded as one of the best-starting pitchers in baseball, is about to become one of the most expensive. After Blake Snell’s five-year, $182 million deal with the Dodgers, it’s clear the price for elite pitching is climbing fast.
Snell’s contract has set a new standard. After a career year, he cashed in, joining a Dodgers rotation already stacked with talent. The move didn’t just bolster Los Angeles—it also set a tone for this winter’s free-agent market. Starting pitching is at a premium, and teams willing to pay are jumping in early. For the Braves, who are mindful of payroll, this complicates their chances of keeping Fried.
Atlanta has been methodical in managing their budget. Trading Jorge Soler and letting Travis d’Arnaud walk were clear signs they were shedding salary to create flexibility. Even so, matching what Fried is likely to command—north of $30 million annually—would be a departure from their usual approach under general manager Alex Anthopoulos. The Braves have thrived by finding value and avoiding long-term risks on expensive free agents. Committing to Fried would mean testing the limits of that philosophy.
The Braves’ rotation without Fried isn’t bleak. Spencer Strider, if healthy, has ace potential, and Bryce Elder provide depth. But losing Fried would leave a clear gap at the top. Replacing him would be difficult in a market that lacks affordable, high-end options. Anthopoulos could look to trades or under-the-radar signings, but those moves come with their own risks.
Keeping Fried would solidify Atlanta’s rotation and give them an edge in a competitive National League. But at a steep cost, it’s a decision that isn’t just about 2025—it’s about the seasons that follow. Anthopoulos faces a tough balancing act, weighing the immediate benefits against the long-term impact on the franchise’s financial flexibility. It’s the kind of challenge that will define the Braves’ offseason and, potentially, their future.
