Max Fried’s Departure from Braves Sparks Debate Over Long-Term Risk
Atlanta Braves fans are still feeling the sting of Max Fried’s departure. Once it became clear that General Manager Alex Anthopoulos had no plans to prioritize re-signing the star pitcher, it was only a matter of time before Fried found a new home. He ultimately signed a major multi-year deal with the New York Yankees—and he’s off to an incredible start.
In his first three outings with the Yankees, Fried has performed at an elite level, posting over 20 strikeouts and an ERA below 2.00. His start places him alongside names like Rudy May (1974) and Orlando Hernandez (1998) in Yankees history.
But despite his success, the Braves’ decision seems rooted in a concern over long-term risk, not short-term performance. At 31, Fried is pitching like an ace—but what about at 38? The issue wasn’t money; it was the length of the contract. Anthopoulos has consistently avoided lengthy deals, valuing financial flexibility over sentiment.
Injuries have been a concern throughout Fried’s career, and while he’s athletic enough to potentially age well, the Braves chose to bet on time catching up to him rather than invest in the later years of his career.
Atlanta, off to a rough 2-9 start, could surely use a talent like Fried right now, but hindsight is easy. As much as fans wanted to keep him, Fried didn’t end up with the Dodgers—his hometown team—which some may find a small consolation.
Letting a player like Fried go is never easy. He gave Braves fans years of excellence and was the winning pitcher in Game 6 of the 2021 World Series. Still, baseball is ultimately a business. The front office made a calculated decision that may or may not pay off in the long run.
For now, Fried is thriving in New York, and perhaps he could help the Yankees win their first World Series since 2009. Meanwhile, Braves fans are left hoping the team can turn things around—and soon.
As painful as it is, sometimes even beloved players have to move on. Baseball, like time, doesn’t stop for anyone.
