MLB Announces Max Fried News After First Season With Yankees

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Gavin Groe | Last updated Nov 13, 2025 9:28 PM ET

Left-handed starting pitcher Max Fried joined the New York Yankees last offseason on a record-breaking eight-year, $218 million contract. His deal is the largest ever for a southpaw in MLB history.

With sky-high expectations, Fried delivered in his first year in the Bronx, stepping up in ace Gerrit Cole’s absence and providing stability to the Yankees’ rotation. The 31-year-old started 32 games, going 19-5 with a 2.86 ERA and 189 strikeouts.

Fried consistently limited hard contact and his 19 wins led all of MLB. His performance was a major reason the Yankees stayed competitive throughout the year and earned a spot in the MLB playoffs.

New York Yankees pitcher Max Fried (54)© Aaron Doster-Imagn Images

On Thursday, Fried was recognized for his efforts during the 2025 MLB Awards show, earning a spot on the All-MLB First Team.

The All-MLB teams were introduced in 2019 to honor players for their performance across the entire season, offering a more complete measure of excellence than All-Star selections, which are based solely on first-half results. Fried faced strong competition from across MLB, as the All-MLB teams include players from both leagues, but he still earned the honor.

MLB announced the news in a post on X.

Max Fried’s first season in New York ends with his second career All-MLB First Team Selection pic.twitter.com/G770CWT72u
— MLB (@MLB) November 14, 2025

Before arriving in New York, Fried spent the first eight seasons of his career with the Atlanta Braves, where he developed into one of the most reliable starters in baseball. He played a key role in Atlanta’s 2021 World Series championship run and now hopes to bring that same postseason pedigree to the Yankees, who have not won it all since 2009. Fried’s championship experience is invaluable for a team looking to end its title drought.

Over the course of his career, Fried has earned three All-Star selections and four Gold Glove Awards, showcasing not only his dominance on the mound but also his elite ability to field his position. His athleticism has made him one of the most complete pitchers in the game.

In his first season in pinstripes, Fried proved he could thrive under pressure and in a demanding market. With Cole expected to return healthy and the Yankees aiming to reload for another postseason push, Fried’s presence gives them a legitimate chance to contend again in 2026.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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