The New York Yankees have made a significant addition to their pitching rotation by signing left-handed pitcher Max Fried to an eight-year, $218 million contract, marking the largest deal ever for a left-handed pitcher. ([mlb.com](https://www.mlb.com/yankees/news/max-fried-yankees-contract?utm_source=chatgpt.com))
Fried, 30, has spent the past seven seasons with the Atlanta Braves, where he established himself as one of the premier pitchers in Major League Baseball. Over the last five seasons, he has posted a 2.81 ERA, the lowest among MLB starting pitchers during that span. ([espn.com](https://www.espn.com/mlb/story/_/id/42899687/max-fried-new-york-yankees-agree-8-year-218-million-contract?utm_source=chatgpt.com))
Yankees manager Aaron Boone expressed his enthusiasm about the acquisition, stating, “He’s one of the game’s really, really good pitchers and has a really good track record now of success.” ([mlb.com](https://www.mlb.com/yankees/news/max-fried-yankees-contract?utm_source=chatgpt.com))
The contract includes a $20 million signing bonus, to be paid in two $10 million installments, one immediately and another next year. Fried will earn $12 million in each of the first two years and $29 million annually for the final six years. ([nypost.com](https://nypost.com/2024/12/11/sports/the-signing-bonus-yankees-gave-max-fried-in-free-agency/?utm_source=chatgpt.com))
Fried’s addition bolsters an already formidable Yankees rotation that includes Gerrit Cole, Carlos Rodón, Luis Gil, Clarke Schmidt, and Marcus Stroman. His presence is expected to provide the Yankees with a strong one-two punch at the top of their rotation, enhancing their pitching depth as they aim to defend their American League pennant. ([mlb.com](https://www.mlb.com/yankees/news/max-fried-yankees-contract?utm_source=chatgpt.com))
Reflecting on his decision to join the Yankees, Fried said, “It just felt right.” He expressed excitement about embracing the winning tradition of the franchise and contributing to its future success. ([reuters.com](https://www.reuters.com/sports/yankees-just-felt-right-218m-man-max-fried-2024-12-18/?utm_source=chatgpt.com))
The Yankees’ acquisition of Fried comes shortly after losing superstar Juan Soto to the Mets. This move demonstrates the organization’s commitment to remaining competitive and addressing key areas of need. ([nypost.com](https://nypost.com/2024/12/18/sports/max-fried-is-already-embracing-his-lofty-yankees-pressure/?utm_source=chatgpt.com))
As the Yankees prepare for the upcoming season, the addition of Fried is expected to play a pivotal role in their pursuit of a championship. His track record of success and ability to perform in high-pressure situations make him a valuable asset to the team’s championship aspirations.
– [reuters.com](https://www.reuters.com/sports/yankees-just-felt-right-218m-man-max-fried-2024-12-18/?utm_source=chatgpt.com)
– [nypost.com](https://nypost.com/2024/12/11/sports/the-signing-bonus-yankees-gave-max-fried-in-free-agency/?utm_source=chatgpt.com)
– [nypost.com](https://nypost.com/2024/12/18/sports/max-fried-is-already-embracing-his-lofty-yankees-pressure/?utm_source=chatgpt.com)
