The Atlanta Braves may soon face a significant gap to fill in their starting rotation, as star pitcher Max Fried is set to become one of the most sought-after free agents this offseason. As one of the top left-handed pitchers in Major League Baseball, Fried is expected to attract attention from almost every contender looking to bolster their pitching staff for a potential World Series push.
Fried has emerged as one of the most reliable and dominant pitchers in the league, making him a highly valuable asset in the free-agent market. Securing a quality left-handed starter like Fried is no small feat, and with his track record, he’s set to command a lucrative contract. Bleacher Report’s Tim Kelly predicted that Fried will sign a six-year, $168 million deal, with the Baltimore Orioles emerging as a potential landing spot.
Kelly highlighted Fried’s consistency and durability as key factors that will drive his value on the market. Since undergoing Tommy John surgery in 2014, Fried has avoided significant injuries and has continued to perform at a high level. Over the past four seasons, Fried has compiled a remarkable 54-25 record with a 2.81 ERA and a 3.11 FIP. His performance has earned him two top-five finishes in National League Cy Young Award voting, including a runner-up finish in 2022. Given these achievements, Fried is poised to surpass the average annual value of $27 million that Carlos Rodón received in his contract, although a five-year deal may be more realistic.
The Baltimore Orioles, who are on the brink of contention, could be an ideal destination for Fried. With their strong young core and growing potential, Fried could be the final piece to push the team over the top and into World Series contention. If Fried does land with the Orioles, his addition would certainly elevate their pitching staff and further solidify their status as a championship contender.
