Max Fried agrees to eight-year deal with Yankees, officially ending Braves tenure.

Max Fried has officially agreed to an eight-year contract with the New York Yankees, marking the end of his tenure with the Atlanta Braves. The deal, worth a reported $200 million, solidifies Fried as one of the Yankees’ most significant acquisitions in recent years, bringing a top-tier starting pitcher to their rotation. This move also signifies a major shift in Fried’s career, as he departs the Braves after seven seasons and several standout performances.

Fried, 30, was a cornerstone of the Braves’ pitching staff, playing a key role in their 2021 World Series championship victory. Over his career in Atlanta, he established himself as one of the most reliable left-handed pitchers in the game, earning multiple All-Star selections and consistently posting impressive ERA figures. His dominance on the mound, paired with his ability to perform in clutch moments, made him a fan favorite and a key part of the Braves’ success during his time with the team.

The Yankees, who have been in search of a reliable ace to bolster their starting rotation, see Fried as the missing piece in their pursuit of another championship. The team hopes that his combination of experience, composure, and elite pitching ability will help elevate their rotation, which has struggled with consistency in recent seasons. Fried will also bring stability and leadership to a young, talented Yankees pitching staff, further strengthening their World Series aspirations.

For the Braves, parting ways with Fried represents a difficult decision, as they lose one of their most trusted arms. However, the team is expected to continue building with a strong roster and promising pitching prospects. Fried’s departure marks the end of an era, but his legacy in Atlanta will remain a significant part of the franchise’s recent history.