NEW YORK — Max Fried has shared his thoughts on how he plans to enjoy his newfound wealth, focusing not on luxurious spending but on his beloved pet, a three-year-old dog named Apollo. “The first thing that came to mind was probably just getting my dog a bunch of dog food,” Fried remarked during a press event at Yankee Stadium, just one day after sealing a remarkable $218 million, eight-year contract—the most lucrative deal ever for a left-handed pitcher.
Despite not being as renowned as Shohei Ohtani’s pet, Fried’s dog will likely have a greater public presence in the coming season. The pitcher chose the name Apollo for his furry friend, not initially aware of the unintentional connection to the famous character Apollo Creed from the “Rocky” movies. “I took that and ran with it like I did it on purpose,” he quipped.
After spending eight successful seasons with the Atlanta Braves, including a World Series championship in 2021 where he contributed six scoreless innings in the decisive Game 6, Fried is set to join a formidable Yankees rotation that already features Gerrit Cole, Carlos Rodón, Luis Gil, Clarke Schmidt, and Marcus Stroman. Having played out his career in Atlanta, Fried expressed his astonishment at the prospect of playing in New York.
“I was fairly surprised at first,” he admitted. “But when the Yankees show interest, you pay attention. Wearing the pinstripes carries certain expectations and responsibility, and I am incredibly eager to embrace that.”
Fried was immediately struck by the team’s commitment upon entering the clubhouse, where he noticed the words “prepare, compete, win” prominently displayed. This mantra deeply resonated with him as a competitor and player.
In their efforts to clinch a World Series title for the first time since 2009, New York’s general manager Brian Cashman accelerated plans after losing out on star outfielder Juan Soto to the Mets. The Yankees also added closer Devin Williams from the Brewers and outfielder Cody Bellinger from the Cubs.
At his introductory press conference, there were heartfelt moments, with manager Aaron Boone presenting flowers to Fried’s mother, Carrie, and Cashman doing the same for his girlfriend, Reni Whalley. The pitcher expressed his enthusiasm for joining the historic franchise. “A lot of people have worn these pinstripes, and there’s a different feeling,” he said. “I’m thrilled to represent one of the most successful teams in sports and aim to contribute to its legacy.”
Fried’s contract includes a significant $20 million signing bonus, split into two payments set for January 31—one in 2024 and another in 2026. He will receive $12 million for each of the first two seasons, followed by $29 million annually for the remaining six years. His contract also features a complete no-trade clause.
Boone recalled a past encounter during a Zoom meeting where he reflected on a game where Fried had triumphed over the Yankees. “He appears soft-spoken and reserved, yet he’s a fierce competitor on the field,” Boone observed. “He really knows how to dismantle opposing lineups.”
A two-time All-Star, Fried has faced his share of injury challenges, missing time a total of ten times since 2018, with ailments ranging from blisters to strained hamstrings. He noted that playing in the humid climate of Atlanta may have contributed to his blister issues but credited the team’s medical staff for helping him establish an effective routine.
With an impressive 54-25 record and a 2.81 ERA over the last five seasons—along with five complete games and four shutouts—Fried is among an elite group of pitchers. His performance this year, which included 11 wins and a 3.25 ERA across 29 starts, showcased his versatility, as he struck out 166 batters while walking a career-high 57 over 174 1/3 innings.
Pitching coach Matt Blake noted that Fried possesses a unique ability to adapt and refine his approach, allowing for continued growth. “There’s an impressive potential moving forward with how his pitching arsenal can evolve with our system,” Blake commented.
Fried’s addition to the Yankees comes with high expectations, and all eyes will be on him as he integrates into one of baseball’s most storied franchises, aiming to deliver on the immense promise he has shown throughout his career.