Left-hander Max Fried agrees to $218 million US, 8-year contract with Yankees: reports
The New York Yankees have made a historic move by signing left-handed pitcher Max Fried to a record-breaking $218 million, eight-year contract. This deal surpasses the previous highest contract for a left-handed pitcher, which was held by David Price at $217 million.
Fried, who will turn 31 in January, spent his first eight seasons with the Braves and has established himself as a top-tier pitcher. He made the All-Star team in 2022 and 2024 and had a standout season in 2022 when he finished fifth in the National League Cy Young Award voting. In 2024, Fried had his best season yet, going 14-7 with a 2.48 ERA.
The talented lefty joins a stacked rotation in New York that already features ace Gerrit Cole, Carlos Rodon, Luis Gil, Clarke Schmidt, Nestor Cortes, and Marcus Stroman. With Fried on board, the Yankees are poised to have one of the most formidable pitching staffs in the league.
In other baseball news, the Washington Nationals secured the No. 1 overall pick in the upcoming amateur draft after winning the lottery. The Toronto Blue Jays, despite having the fifth-best odds, slipped to the No. 8 pick. This draft order was determined through a weighted lottery among teams that did not make the playoffs.
Additionally, the Blue Jays have brought back reliever Yimi Garcia on a $15 million, two-year contract. Garcia, who was traded to Seattle mid-season, posted a 3.46 ERA and five saves in 2024. The 34-year-old veteran adds depth to Toronto’s bullpen and brings experience from his 10 seasons in the majors.
Meanwhile, Willy Adames finalized a $182 million, seven-year deal with the San Francisco Giants. The power-hitting shortstop had a breakout season with the Milwaukee Brewers, hitting .251 with 32 home runs and 112 RBIs. Adames’ signing marks a significant move for the Giants as they aim to return to playoff contention under new leadership.
Overall, these recent developments in the baseball world highlight the excitement and anticipation for the upcoming season. Fans can look forward to seeing top talents like Fried, Garcia, and Adames in action as they make their mark on their respective teams.
