Max Fried Set to Anchor Yankees’ Rotation After Strong Spring Training Performance

The Yankees' $218 million acquisition of Max Fried becomes pivotal with Gerrit Cole sidelined for the season following Tommy John surgery.

Max Fried signed an eight-year, $218 million deal with the Yankees, the largest contract ever for a left-handed pitcher, after considering offers from the Red Sox and Rangers.
Fried cited a 'gut feeling' as a key factor in choosing the Yankees, though their offer included an eighth year that outpaced competing bids.
With Gerrit Cole undergoing Tommy John surgery, Fried is expected to take on the role of the Yankees' de facto ace for the 2025 season.
Fried showcased his ground-ball-heavy pitching style in a 4 1/3 scoreless inning spring training outing against the Red Sox, generating seven ground-ball outs.
The Yankees view Fried's pitching style as a strong fit with their improved infield defense, bolstering their rotation after missing out on signing Juan Soto.