The New York Yankees have signed left-handed pitcher Max Fried to an eight-year, $218 million contract, making it the most lucrative deal in MLB history for a left-handed pitcher. Fried, a three-time Gold Glove winner, had an impressive career with the Atlanta Braves, where he maintained a 3.07 ERA over eight seasons. In 2024, he posted a 3.25 ERA with 166 strikeouts across 174 2/3 innings and earned his second All-Star selection.
This move comes after the Yankees missed out on Juan Soto, who signed with the Mets. Fried’s addition strengthens the Yankees’ rotation and signals their commitment to contending in 2025. The contract includes a full no-trade clause, and there is no deferred money involved.
Despite Fried’s strengths, including elite control of hard contact and a strong ground-ball rate, there are questions about his durability and his relatively low strikeout rate compared to other top-tier pitchers. Nonetheless, his skills are expected to adapt well to Yankee Stadium, even with its hitter-friendly reputati
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