Max Fried’s $218 million contract with the New York Yankees is considered one of the riskiest deals due to his history of injuries. Despite his immediate connection with the team and impressive 2024 season stats (3.25 ERA, 166 strikeouts), concerns arise from his past issues like blisters, strains, and a concussion. While his talent is undeniable, the Yankees are betting on his ability to stay healthy and perform consistently.
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When Max Fried, the highly-touted left-handed pitcher, signed a record-breaking $218 million contract with the New York Yankees, the city was abuzz with excitement. Fans and analysts eagerly anticipated the impact of Fried’s electric arm in the iconic pinstripes. However, beneath the surface of this historic deal lies a critical question: Is this massive contract truly worth the risk?
A Promising Start, But Questions Remain
Fox Sports recently analyzed the riskiest contracts of the 2025 offseason, and Fried’s deal made the list. Despite his immediate connection with the Yankees, his history of injuries casts a shadow over the $218 million commitment. The length and magnitude of the contract have led many to wonder if the Yankees are taking on more risk than they anticipated.
A History of Injuries
Max Fried’s career has been marred by a series of injuries that have kept him sidelined for significant periods. In 2018, a blister on his middle finger sent him to the injury list. The setbacks continued with a strained left groin in 2019, a muscle spasm on his left side in 2020, and a strained right hamstring in 2021. In 2022, he suffered a concussion, and in 2023, he faced a series of injuries including a strained left hamstring, strained left forearm, and another blister on his left index finger.
The Pressure to Perform
While Fried’s talent and potential are undeniable, his injury history raises serious concerns. The Yankees are no strangers to high-stakes contracts, but this $218 million deal is a significant gamble. The pressure is on Fried to stay healthy and deliver consistent performances. His contract could either become a cornerstone of the Yankees’ pitching staff or go down as one of the riskiest moves in baseball history.
Why Fried Chose the Yankees
Max Fried had several offers from different teams during free agency, but the Yankees intrigued him in a way that others couldn’t. The franchise’s storied history and commitment to winning resonated deeply with Fried. During his introductory press conference in the Bronx, he recalled seeing the words “Prepare, Compete, and Win” on the clubhouse wall. These words aligned perfectly with his competitive spirit and desire to win.
A Commitment to Winning
In 2024, Fried posted impressive stats with a 3.25 ERA, 166 strikeouts, and a 1.16 WHIP, solidifying his status as a top-tier starter. However, for Fried, it was never just about the numbers. “Winning is a big priority for me,” he said. With his record-breaking $218 million deal, Fried’s arrival in New York comes with massive expectations. While the deal is fraught with risk, his commitment to winning gives the Yankees hope that he is the perfect addition to their quest for another championship banner.
Max Fried’s $218 million contract with the New York Yankees is a thrilling development, but it is not without its risks. His history of injuries raises concerns about his ability to stay healthy and perform consistently. However, his talent and commitment to winning provide a glimmer of hope that this deal could be a game-changer for the Yankees. As Spring Training begins, all eyes will be on Fried to see if he can defy the odds and deliver on the promise of his historic contract.
