Max Fried in High Demand: Yankees and Red Sox Lead the Charge

According to Bob Nightengale of USA Today, Max Fried, one of the top free-agent starting pitchers this offseason, is expected to sign with either the New York Yankees or the Boston Red Sox. Both of these powerhouse teams have shown strong interest in securing top-tier pitching talent and have also been linked to pursuing superstar outfielder Juan Soto.


If Soto signs elsewhere, it could set the stage for a heated bidding war between the Yankees and Red Sox for Fried's services. This dynamic suggests that the competition for Fried could become even more intense.


Fried has built an impressive resume over an eight-year career with the Atlanta Braves, including two seasons finishing in the top five of the National League Cy Young Award voting, two All-Star selections, and a World Series title in 2021. His performance since 2019 has been particularly noteworthy, with a 3.06 ERA and a 1.14 WHIP across 824 2/3 innings.


Despite his success, Fried has reportedly "priced himself out of Atlanta," according to Nightengale. Both Fried and fellow free-agent ace Corbin Burnes are expected to command contracts exceeding $200 million. This high valuation underscores the demand for elite pitching talent in the current market.


The potential signing of Fried by either the Yankees or Red Sox would significantly bolster their pitching rotations, adding a proven frontline starter capable of making a substantial impact. As the offseason progresses, all eyes will be on which team can secure this coveted ace.