NEW YORK — The baseball world was shaken when multiple sources revealed that the New York Yankees management is planning a “shocking” contract to retain Max Fried, the pitcher who is considered the new pillar of the Bronx Bombers. With Fried entering the peak of his career and the transfer market expected to explode, the Yankees seem determined not to let this gem leave Yankee Stadium.
Max Fried – from controversial contract to irreplaceable star
Since joining the Yankees, Fried has immediately asserted his ace status. With a 2.87 ERA and a 1.05 WHIP in the 2025 season, along with 198 strikeouts in 29 starts, Fried has not only filled the void left by Gerrit Cole’s injury, but has also elevated the entire Yankees’ pitching lineup.
With the AL East in a tight race between the Yankees and the Blue Jays, Fried is seen as the “iron shield” that helps the team maintain the upper hand. According to FanGraphs, the Yankees have won 72% of their games with Fried on the field — a number that makes him a key player in the playoff campaign.
Is a record deal coming?
Insiders say the Yankees are considering a nine-year, $270 million-plus contract, a figure that could surpass many previous team records. If successful, it would be the largest contract for a pitcher in Yankees history, surpassing the Gerrit Cole deal in 2019 (nine years, $324 million).
A Yankees executive shared anonymously:
“Fried is more than just a great pitcher. He brings stability, character, and leadership. We know his value and are willing to pay whatever it takes to keep Fried in New York.”
Major Impact on MLB Market
The Yankees’ willingness to spend a “mountain of money” to keep Fried immediately caused a stir in the MLB market. Other teams, especially the Dodgers and Giants, who were rumored to be interested in Fried, would be virtually eliminated from the game if the Yankees locked up the contract.
Analysts said this was also a strong affirmation that the Yankees were pursuing a new era of championships, with Aaron Judge and Max Fried as the pillars. “If Fried re-signs, the Yankees will have one of the most powerful pairs of players in MLB, both in terms of pitching and hitting,” said expert Jeff Passan.
Fried speaks with a hint
After the recent win over the Red Sox, Fried was asked about the contract rumors and answered briefly but meaningfully:
“I love this city, I love the atmosphere at Yankee Stadium. I have never felt like I belong anywhere like I do here. But every decision takes time.”
This statement immediately caused an explosion on social media, with Yankees fans believing that Fried was implicitly confirming his desire to stay, while experts said that this was an extremely wise “price increase” move.
The future awaits
If the Yankees officially announce the contract in the next few weeks, this will be a milestone that changes the entire trajectory of the team in the new decade. Max Fried represents not only the strength on the field but also the long-term vision of the Yankees’ owner.
The only question left unanswered: Will this “shocking” deal be finalized during the season, or will the Yankees risk waiting until the offseason to complete it — a gamble that could leave the Bronx breathless until the last minute.
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