Max Fried to Baltimore Orioles: Max Fried, the Atlanta Braves’ All-Star left-handed pitcher, is at the center of swirling speculation as he enters free agency. The talented starter, who has been a cornerstone of the Braves’ rotation for the past eight years, is now predicted to potentially sign a massive $168 million deal with the Baltimore Orioles.
Key Takeaways
- Max Fried, a free agent, is rumored to be considering a $168 million deal with the Baltimore Orioles.
- Fried has been a crucial part of the Braves’ rotation with a career 3.07 ERA.
- The Orioles are looking to bolster their pitching staff, possibly replacing Corbin Burnes.
- Fried’s potential move could significantly impact both the Braves and Orioles.
Predicted: Max Fried to Baltimore Orioles deal could be worth $168 Million
Max Fried’s Impressive Career with the Braves
Max Fried has established himself as one of the premier left-handed starters in Major League Baseball during his tenure with the Atlanta Braves. His consistency and dominance on the mound have been key factors in the Braves’ recent success.
Career Highlights
- Career ERA: 3.07
- All-Star Appearances: 2
- Gold Glove Awards: 3
- Top-five NL Cy Young Award finishes: 2
Fried’s performance over the last five seasons has been particularly noteworthy, cementing his status as an elite pitcher in the league.
The Potential Orioles Deal
According to Bleacher Report’s Tim Kelly, the Baltimore Orioles are emerging as a strong contender for Fried’s services. The projected deal is substantial:
- Contract Length: 6 years
- Total Value: $168 million
This move would represent a significant investment for the Orioles and a major shift in their financial approach to team building.
4. Max Fried
Prediction: Baltimore Orioles/Six-year, $168M pic.twitter.com/IS9Xnj1Wib
— B/R Walk-Off (@BRWalkoff) November 13, 2024Impact on the Orioles
If the prediction comes to fruition, Fried’s addition to the Orioles would have several implications:
- Ace Acquisition: Fried would immediately become the ace of the Orioles’ pitching staff.
- Rotation Boost: He would join a rotation that includes promising talents like Grayson Rodriguez and Zach Eflin.
- Statement Signing: This deal would signal the Orioles’ commitment to competing at the highest level and moving past the frugal spending of the Angelos era.
What This Means for the Braves
The potential departure of Max Fried would leave a significant void in the Braves’ rotation:
- Loss of Consistency: Fried has been a reliable force in the Braves’ starting lineup for years.
- Rotation Reshuffling: Atlanta would need to reassess their pitching strategy for the upcoming seasons.
- Free Agency Focus: The Braves may need to pivot their free agency plans to address the gap left by Fried’s departure.
While a reunion with the Braves hasn’t been completely ruled out, the current speculation suggests that Fried’s time in Atlanta may be coming to an end.
The Bigger Picture
This potential move reflects broader trends in MLB:
- Competitive Balance: Mid-market teams like the Orioles are making bold moves to compete with perennial contenders.
- Pitching Premium: The high value placed on top-tier starting pitching is evident in the projected contract size.
- Free Agency Dynamics: Star players changing teams can significantly alter the competitive landscape of the league.
Health Considerations
One factor that teams will consider when evaluating Fried is his health history:
- Tommy John Surgery: Fried underwent the procedure as a prospect in 2014.
- Recent Health: He has avoided major injuries since his surgery, demonstrating durability.
Final Thoughts
The potential signing of Max Fried by the Baltimore Orioles for $168 million would be a game-changing move for both organizations. For the Orioles, it would represent a bold step towards contention and a new era of spending. For the Braves, it would mean the loss of a homegrown talent who has been instrumental in their recent success.
As the offseason unfolds, all eyes will be on Max Fried and the Baltimore Orioles to see if this predicted deal becomes a reality. Whether he lands in Baltimore or elsewhere, Fried’s decision will undoubtedly have a significant impact on the 2025 MLB season and beyond.
