Max Fried’s career with the Atlanta Braves was filled with remarkable moments that will be etched in the memories of fans for years to come. While Fried has since signed with the New York Yankees, his time in Atlanta was marked by some unforgettable performances. Here are five of the most notable moments from his career with the Braves:
- World Series Game 6 (2021) – The Grittiest Performance
The 2021 World Series was a monumental chapter in Braves history, and Max Fried played a pivotal role in their success. Game 6, in particular, showcased Fried’s toughness. After a scary moment when Michael Brantley stepped on Fried’s ankle during a bang-bang play at first base, it appeared his night might be over. However, Fried powered through the injury and delivered six scoreless innings, allowing just four hits, no walks, and striking out six. His emotion was palpable as he exited the mound, yelling “Let’s go!” as the Braves secured their second World Series title since relocating to Atlanta. - Walk-off Hit Against the Marlins (July 4, 2021)
Max Fried wasn’t just a pitcher; he could hit too. On July 4, 2021, Fried stepped to the plate in the bottom of the ninth inning with the game tied at 7-7. With the Braves depleted on the bench, manager Brian Snitker called on Fried to pinch hit. Fried delivered a walk-off single to help the Braves win 8-7, proving that his athleticism extended beyond the mound. - Throwing a Maddux (April 23, 2024)
A rare feat in modern baseball, Fried achieved the ultimate pitching performance: a complete-game shutout with fewer than 100 pitches. On April 23, 2024, Fried needed just 92 pitches to stymie the Marlins and throw the third “Maddux” of his career. This performance, which mirrored the dominance of Hall of Famer Greg Maddux, was a testament to Fried’s mastery on the mound. His ability to dominate with efficiency cemented his status as one of the game’s elite pitchers. - Terrifying Sprint to Home Plate (2019)
In another dramatic moment against the Marlins, Fried was called upon to pinch-run in extra innings in 2019. With the game on the line, Fried raced around the bases and dove headfirst into home plate in a desperate attempt to score the go-ahead run. The sight of Fried’s slide was nerve-wracking, as he reached for the plate with his pitching arm, but he was safe, and the Braves went on to win the game. It was a thrilling, albeit terrifying, moment that showcased Fried’s commitment to his team. - Flirting with a No-Hitter (May 2024)
Fried came incredibly close to delivering the Braves’ next no-hitter in 2024. He threw seven innings of no-hit ball against the Mets, walking three and striking out five. Joe Jiménez followed, and the Braves carried a no-hitter into the ninth inning. Unfortunately, with two outs in the ninth, J.D. Martinez broke up the no-hitter with a home run. Although it wasn’t meant to be, Fried’s near-perfect outing remains one of the most impressive pitching performances in Braves history.
Max Fried’s legacy with the Braves will be defined by these unforgettable moments, each showcasing his talent, toughness, and love for the game. While fans will miss seeing him in Atlanta, his time with the Braves will always be remembered as part of the franchise’s rich history.