Max Fried’s unbeaten run with the New York Yankees came to an end on Friday during an intense clash at Dodger Stadium, where Shohei Ohtani’s historic MLB game against the Yankees led the Los Angeles Dodgers to an 8-5 victory. Ohtani’s remarkable performance, including multiple home runs, overshadowed Fried’s pitching efforts and changed the course of the game.
Max Fried Struggles Despite Early Support from Aaron Judge
Fried started strong, receiving early offensive backing when Aaron Judge blasted a 446-foot home run in the first inning, putting the Yankees ahead. However, Ohtani quickly responded with a solo 417-foot homer in the bottom half of the inning, leveling the score. Through five innings, Fried allowed eight hits and three strikeouts but was still able to keep the game close until the later stages.
The Yankees maintained a three-run lead entering the sixth inning, but Fried faltered when Ohtani connected for a second home run in that frame. This blast enabled Ohtani to become the first player in modern MLB history to surpass 60 runs scored before June, exemplifying his offensive dominance against New York.
Fried Reflects on First Loss with Yankees Amid Strong Season Stats
After the game, Fried candidly acknowledged his performance shortcomings.
“I just didn’t do my job,”
he said, admitting the disappointment of surrendering the lead.
“I’m a competitor. I want to go out there and win. So the fact that we had a lead and I gave it up a couple times, it’s not going to sit well with me.”
Despite this setback, Fried’s 2025 MLB season remains impressive, boasting a 7-1 record along with a stellar 1.92 ERA through 12 starts. His first loss with the Yankees serves as a rare blemish in an otherwise dominant pitching campaign.
Yankees Look to Bounce Back in Upcoming Game Against Dodgers
The defeat ended New York’s five-game winning streak, dropping their record to 35-21. The team aims to recover quickly, with Will Warren scheduled to pitch in Saturday’s game against Los Angeles Dodgers starter Landon Knack. Fans will be watching closely to see how the Yankees respond after Ohtani’s historic display and Fried’s tough outing.