Yankees’ Quick Response: Max Fried Signing Brings New Hope
After the disappointment of missing out on Juan Soto, the Yankees’ front office faced immense pressure to respond swiftly and effectively. The question on everyone’s mind was: what’s Plan B? The answer came sooner than expected, as the team has reportedly signed Max Fried to an eight-year deal.
A Much-Needed Rotation Boost
My initial reaction to the news? Relief that Carlos Rodon is no longer the team’s de facto number two starter. With Fried on board, the Yankees can finally reduce Rodon’s workload, which was a major priority this offseason. While some might criticize the length of Fried’s contract, it’s essential to consider the context. Boston was hot on Fried’s heels, and to land a frontline starter like him, the Yankees had to be willing to go above their comfort level.
A Rotation to Rival the Best
With Fried joining the rotation, the Yankees now boast a formidable Cole-Fried-Gil-Rodon-Schmidt lineup. This newfound depth provides flexibility in case a massive trade becomes necessary. The team can dangle one of the younger starters as bait without sacrificing too much. Assuming Fried’s arm remains healthy, he should age well, thanks to his ground-ball-heavy approach and ability to thrive on weak contact.
Infield Defense: The Next Priority
However, Fried’s success relies heavily on a solid infield defense. The Yankees must now focus on addressing this weakness, starting with a good defensive first baseman – hello, Christian Walker! Meanwhile, Jazz Chisholm cannot be the starting third baseman on Opening Day. This might open the door for a Nolan Arenado trade, although his league-average bat raises concerns. Alternatively, the team could explore other options, like Hae Song Kim.
A Good Start, But Not the End
While the Fried signing is a significant step forward, it’s merely the beginning. The Yankees’ defense needs to improve across the board in 2025. Expect more moves to come, as the team continues to build a strong foundation for success.
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