Max Fried has started the season with a historic dominant start with the Yankees, showcasing an exceptional performance that draws comparisons to Hall of Famer Pedro Martínez. Through late May, Fried has maintained an impressive 1.29 ERA and an undefeated 7-0 record, establishing himself as a central figure in the Yankees’ pitching rotation.
Remarkable Early Performance Highlights Fried’s Command
Fried’s move to New York has been marked by seamless success. In a recent outing against the Colorado Rockies, he struck a commanding presence by allowing only one run over 7 1/3 innings while executing two pickoffs at first base in a short span. This combination of precise pitching and deft control over base runners has earned admiration from both teammates and opposing teams.
Teammate Cody Bellinger described Fried’s pickoff move as “disgusting,” emphasizing how this skill adds a critical edge to his overall game and enhances the Yankees’ defensive strength.
Historic Comparisons and Statistical Milestones
Fried’s dominance early in the season invites parallels to Pedro Martínez, who famously combined control, varied pitches, and mental toughness to overwhelm hitters during his peak years. Fried’s repertoire includes a fastball clocked in the 94–95 mph range, a sharp curveball, and his disruptive pickoff move. Such arsenal mirrors the blend of finesse and power that defined Martínez’s legacy.
Fried has lowered his ERA to 1.29, becoming the first Yankees pitcher since 1913—the year earned runs were officially recorded—to hold a sub-1.30 ERA through his first 10 starts in a season. According to MLB analyst Sarah Lang, only three pitchers in the last 30 years have recorded a lower ERA in their initial 11 starts after joining a new team: Justin Verlander in 2017 and 2018, Lance Lynn in 2021, and Randy Johnson in 1998.
This achievement stands out given the storied history of the Yankees’ pitching staff, which includes legends like Whitey Ford, Ron Guidry, Gerrit Cole, and others who helped shape the franchise’s legacy.
Pushing Through Challenges to Excel
Fried’s rise has not been without setbacks. After undergoing Tommy John surgery in 2014 and facing uncertainties about his Major League Baseball future during the 2017 season, his journey has been defined by resilience and determination.
His cultural background and experiences, including competing in the Maccabiah Games, have contributed to his mental toughness, helping him manage the pressure brought by his sizable $218 million contract and the responsibility of anchoring the Yankees’ pitching staff.
The Yankees secured Fried with an eight-year deal following the departure of star outfielder Juan Soto. General Manager Brian Cashman noted that their pursuit of Fried was motivated by his versatility and dependability, rather than solely the financial aspect.
Fried’s integration into the roster has strengthened the Yankees’ pitching depth and contributed to the team’s strong start, as they currently lead the American League East by six games.
Fried’s Place in Yankees and MLB History
According to Sporting News,
“It’s the second time in MLB since 1969 that a pitcher has had at least seven wins, no losses and an ERA under 1.50 entering Memorial Day.”
Further reinforcing this rare feat, OptaStats highlighted that
“The first? Pedro Martinez with the Expos in 1997, when he was 8-0 with a 1.17 ERA.”
These facts showcase the rarity and significance of Fried’s historic dominant start with the Yankees, marking him as a major contender for the Cy Young Award and a key player to watch as the season progresses. His early-season performances have placed him among elite company and set high expectations for the remainder of the year.