Yankees Sign Max Fried, Prompting Trade Speculation About Pitching Rotation

The Yankees' $218 million deal with Fried strengthens their rotation but raises questions about potential trades to address other roster needs.

The Yankees have agreed to an eight-year, $218 million contract with left-hander Max Fried, pending a physical, making him the highest-paid southpaw in MLB history.
Fried joins an already deep rotation that includes Gerrit Cole, Carlos Rodón, Luis Gil, Clarke Schmidt, Nestor Cortes, and Marcus Stroman, creating a surplus of starters.
General Manager Brian Cashman has acknowledged that teams are inquiring about Yankees pitchers, with trade possibilities including Kyle Tucker of the Astros or other roster upgrades.
Nestor Cortes, projected to earn $8 million in arbitration, is seen by analysts as a likely trade candidate, while Marcus Stroman’s $18.5 million contract could also make him expendable despite challenges in moving it.
The Yankees are actively looking to address needs in the outfield, infield, and bullpen, particularly following Juan Soto's decision to sign with the Mets.