The Atlanta Braves faithful bid an emotional farewell to one of their beloved stars, Max Fried, as the left-handed ace signed a blockbuster eight-year, $218 million deal with the New York Yankees. A hero of the Braves’ 2021 World Series victory, Fried leaves behind a legacy etched in Atlanta sports history, though his departure seemed inevitable this offseason.
A Quiet Farewell to an Atlanta Icon
Max Fried’s departure lacked the drama that surrounded other Braves exits, such as Freddie Freeman and Dansby Swanson. For months, it appeared unlikely the Braves would retain the 30-year-old pitcher who had been a cornerstone of their rotation. The writing was on the wall as Fried, who excelled in Atlanta for eight seasons, didn’t receive the contract extension many of the team’s younger stars secured in recent years.
When Fried addressed the media after his final start for Atlanta in Game 2 of the Wild Card Series against the Padres, his emotions were evident.
“[Wearing the Braves uniform] means everything,” Fried said. “It’s the organization that traded for me and gave me the opportunity to come to the big leagues and be an established big league player. I have absolutely loved every minute of it.”
Fried leaves Atlanta with a career 3.07 ERA, solidifying his status as one of the most reliable pitchers in the league. His six scoreless innings in the clinching game of the 2021 World Series are unforgettable moments for Braves fans.
Why the Yankees Took the Leap
Despite injuries that limited Fried to just 14 starts in 2023 and another forearm issue that cost him two weeks in 2024, the Yankees saw his potential as worth the risk. With Fried turning 31 in January, the Bronx Bombers clearly value his track record and leadership on the mound. The contract averages $27.25 million annually, running through the 2032 season.
For the Yankees, the deal represents a significant commitment but also a calculated gamble. Fried’s history of injuries raises concerns, yet his upside is undeniable. A second-place finish in the 2022 NL Cy Young voting underscores his ability to dominate when healthy.
Braves’ Pitching Depth Faces Scrutiny
While Fried’s departure leaves a gap in Atlanta’s legacy, it doesn’t disrupt the Braves’ current plans. The team had already been operating as if Fried wouldn’t return, focusing on other pitching options for 2025. Chris Sale, Reynaldo López, and Spencer Schwellenbach are slated to lead the rotation, with Spencer Strider expected to rejoin in late April after recovering from elbow surgery.
Rotation depth remains a concern for Atlanta. Ian Anderson, Grant Holmes, Bryce Elder, and AJ Smith-Shawver are all vying for spots, though Holmes and Anderson face added pressure, as both are out of minor-league options. Braves president of baseball operations Alex Anthopoulos hinted at the possibility of more moves.
“We think there is significant upside there if [Holmes] can get a starting spot,” Anthopoulos said. “But that won’t stop us from either trading for or signing a starter.”
Legacy Secured in Atlanta
Regardless of where Fried’s career goes from here, he will forever hold a special place in Atlanta. His contributions to the Braves’ rebuild from 2015-2017 and his performances in pivotal postseason moments are etched in franchise lore.
Braves fans will undoubtedly miss Fried, but the team’s focus remains on building a sustainable and competitive roster for the future. The question now is whether Atlanta can shore up its rotation with new talent, ensuring another deep postseason run in 2025.
