Max Fried is set to start for the New York Yankees against the Los Angeles Dodgers this Friday, continuing to showcase his exceptional talent in the Max Fried Yankees Dodgers pitching matchup. After signing a record $218 million contract during the offseason, Fried has exceeded expectations this season and has drawn commendation from Dodgers manager Dave Roberts.
With Gerrit Cole and Luis Gil sidelined, Fried has effectively led the Yankees’ pitching rotation. Over 11 starts, he boasts an undefeated 7-0 record, a remarkable 1.29 ERA, a low 0.93 WHIP, and has struck out 67 batters across 70 innings pitched.
Dodgers Manager Highlights Fried’s Pitching Skills and Competitive Edge
Before Fried’s upcoming appearance, Dodgers manager Dave Roberts spoke highly of the left-hander, emphasizing the growth in his pitching repertoire and remembering their previous experience working together. Roberts commented on Fried’s competitiveness and athleticism:
“Great competitor, very, very good athlete. Last few years incorporated a two-seamer more to lefties, it’s good velocity, there’s a breaking ball, changeup, there’s a crossfire. Just a really, really top-end pitcher. Local kid, spent some time with him, and like I said, just a great competitor. He loves the moment.”
—Dave Roberts, Dodgers Manager
Fried, who remains unbeaten this season, is now considered a leading contender for the American League Cy Young Award. In this series opener, he will face Dodgers pitcher Tony Gonsolin, who carries a 2-1 record and a 4.68 ERA so far this year.
Evaluating Max Fried’s Performance Against Dodgers’ Top Hitters
The Dodgers’ lineup features three former MVPs: Shohei Ohtani, Mookie Betts, and Freddie Freeman, all of whom have delivered strong starts to the 2025 season. Ohtani, a three-time MVP, continues to impress as one of Major League Baseball’s most outstanding players.
Despite the challenge, Fried has held his own against these stars. His stats show limited success for the trio when facing him: against Ohtani, Fried has allowed three hits, one home run, and one walk, while striking out the star player once.
Fried’s numbers against Mookie Betts are even more impressive with just one hit and one walk allowed, coupled with eight strikeouts. His record against Freddie Freeman also reflects solid control, giving up two hits and one walk with seven strikeouts.
Overall, the Dodgers’ “Big 3” have combined for a batting average of just .167 against Fried, totaling six hits and 16 strikeouts, along with two walks and an OPS of .500. These figures demonstrate Fried’s ability to neutralize this powerful offense in a high-pressure pitching matchup.
Implications for the Yankees-Dodgers Showdown
Max Fried’s outstanding performance this season and his proven effectiveness against the Dodgers’ elite hitters make him a pivotal factor in the upcoming game. His dominance on the mound not only bolsters the Yankees’ chances but also intensifies this high-profile pitching matchup between two strong teams. As the series progresses, Fried’s continued excellence could play a decisive role in shaping the outcome and add momentum to his Cy Young candidacy.