Max Fried’s anticipated return to pitch against his former team, the Atlanta Braves, has been delayed as the New York Yankees give him additional time to heal a blister on his left index finger. This development was announced when the Yankees revealed their starting rotation for the upcoming series, with Fried notably missing from the list.
The pitcher had exited his last start before the All-Star break, and the blister has kept him off the mound since then. Fried also missed the chance to pitch during the All-Star Game in Atlanta, where he was expected to perform in front of fans from his previous team.
Yankees Adjust Starting Pitchers for Braves Series
In Fried’s absence, the Yankees have reshuffled their rotation, naming Ian Hamilton to start on Friday, Will Warren on Saturday, and Marcus Stroman on Sunday. This adjustment underscores the uncertainty surrounding Fried’s availability for the key series against Atlanta.
Though the exact timing of Fried’s return remains unclear, the injury is not expected to cause a long-term absence. This season, Fried has excelled as a first-year Yankee, compiling an 8-3 record with a 2.43 ERA and 113 strikeouts over 122 innings. At one point, he posted a remarkable 1.78 ERA and was the league’s first pitcher to reach 10 wins this year.
Max Fried’s Impressive Career and Impact with the Yankees
Since signing an eight-year, $218 million contract in the offseason, Fried has continued to build on his successful tenure that began in Atlanta. Drafted and developed by the Braves, he was a two-time All-Star and earned two Gold Glove awards with the team. Fried also played a crucial role in the Braves’ 2021 World Series victory, including a strong performance in the decisive Game 6.
As the Yankees prepare to face the Braves starting Friday night, Spencer Strider will pitch for Atlanta against Ian Hamilton. The first pitch is scheduled for 7:15 p.m. Fans and teammates are eagerly anticipating Fried’s potential return, which could further strengthen the Yankees’ rotation.
Significance of Fried’s Return and Future Outlook
Max Fried remains a leading candidate for the American League Cy Young Award, competing with pitchers such as reigning winner Tarik Skubal, Houston’s Hunter Brown, Boston’s Garret Crochet, and Texas’ Jacob DeGrom. His return could greatly boost the Yankees’ pitching staff during this critical stretch of the season.
While excitement builds around Fried’s eventual comeback to Atlanta, the Yankees are prioritizing his health to ensure he contributes effectively for the remainder of the season. His recovery will be closely monitored as the intensity of the playoff race increases.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. What is Max Fried’s religion?
A. Fried was born and raised in Encino, California. He is the middle son of Carrie and Jonathan Fried and follows the Jewish faith. His younger brother, Jake, who is also a pitcher, went to the University of Arizona.