Max Fried has been nothing short of a revelation for the New York Yankees in the early part of the 2025 MLB season. After signing an 8-year, $218 million contract this offseason, the left-handed pitcher has exceeded expectations in every way. Not only has Fried been one of the most consistent performers on the mound, but his influence has already made him the keystone of the Yankees’ pitching rotation.
Greg Amsinger, MLB Network host, acknowledged Fried’s significant impact, noting that “His tenure in the Bronx is somewhat overlooked,” but adding, “He has been incredibly valuable to their success this year.” Fellow reporter Jon Morosi agreed, emphasizing how Fried has emerged as the “metronome” of the Yankees’ pitching staff, especially while star pitcher Gerrit Cole recovers from injury and other starters battle inconsistency.
Fried’s Unstoppable Start
Fried’s performance has been nothing short of historic. Through his first seven starts, he has posted an ERA of 1.05, leading the league in both ERA and WHIP (0.91). His undefeated 6-0 record has made him one of the most dominant pitchers in the game and has set a new benchmark for success in New York. “Fried is having, objectively, the best start to a Yankee career of any high-profile acquisition ever,” said Morosi.
It’s hard to argue with that statement. Not only is Fried outperforming Yankees legends like CC Sabathia, Masahiro Tanaka, and Mike Mussina, but his early dominance is putting him in elite company among the greatest pitchers in Yankees history. His seven starts have already been better than those of many franchise icons through the same span, showcasing just how exceptional he’s been.
Recognition and Accolades
Fried’s dazzling performances didn’t go unnoticed. After dominating through March and April, he was named the American League Pitcher of the Month for the first time since his 2021 campaign with the Atlanta Braves. This honor solidifies Fried’s place among the Yankees’ best pitchers, making him the first left-hander to win the award for New York since Sabathia in 2011.
Fried’s achievement is even more impressive when considering the current landscape of the Yankees’ pitching rotation. The team has been dealing with injuries and inconsistency, so Fried’s steady presence on the mound has been a major factor in keeping the Yankees competitive. His award is a clear sign of his critical value to the team.
Saving the Yankees Amid Pitching Woes
The Yankees’ pitching staff has faced multiple hurdles this season. With Gerrit Cole sidelined for a stretch and other pitchers struggling with inconsistency, Fried’s presence has been the stabilizing factor. In a season where injuries and inconsistency could have derailed their success, Fried has been the steady hand the Yankees can rely on.
Greg Joyce of the New York Post made it clear that Fried has been the Yankees’ most valuable player so far. “He has saved the team,” Joyce wrote, highlighting how Fried’s performances have kept the team afloat while others in the rotation have faltered. It’s not just his statistics that stand out, but his ability to eat innings, preserve the bullpen, and provide the Yankees with a chance to win every time he takes the mound.
Fried’s Pitching Arsenal
Fried has always been known for his pinpoint control, but in 2025, he has added new layers to his already impressive repertoire. His fastball velocity has noticeably ticked up from his days with the Braves, and he’s using it with more precision than ever. This added zip on his fastball, combined with his already-excellent curveball, has kept hitters off balance, allowing Fried to dictate the tempo of every at-bat.
What’s been even more impressive is how often Fried is using his curveball early in counts. Previously, Fried relied on his curveball as a secondary pitch, but this season he’s mixing it in more regularly, keeping hitters guessing and forcing quick outs. His command of both pitches has allowed him to work deep into games and avoid the wear and tear that other pitchers have struggled with in New York’s high-pressure environment.
Efficiency and Longevity
In addition to his dominance, Fried has shown remarkable efficiency on the mound. Averaging just 12.4 pitches per inning, Fried has been able to consistently go deep into games, which has been a critical factor in preserving the Yankees’ bullpen. His ability to maintain a low pitch count while still being so effective has made him one of the most reliable starters in the AL this season.
His consistency in pitching deep into games has made him a key asset in a season that has seen many of the Yankees’ other starters fail to go deep. Fried has already pitched over 50 innings through his first seven starts and leads the American League in both innings pitched and quality starts. These are stats that demonstrate not only his ability to dominate but his resilience to go the distance, something the Yankees desperately need.
The Impact on the Yankees’ Success
While the Yankees have been sensational offensively, leading the league in batting average (.258), slugging (.465), and home runs (62), it’s Fried’s pitching that has anchored them. Aaron Judge and Paul Goldschmidt have been excellent, but it’s Fried’s performances that have allowed the Yankees to maintain their position atop the AL East. His steadiness has helped balance the explosive offense, allowing the Yankees to thrive even when their bats cool off.
Fried’s incredible ERA and WHIP, combined with his excellent command and durability, have made him the team’s most dependable arm. His ability to consistently keep opposing teams off the scoreboard has provided New York with a foundation they can build on as they move deeper into the season.
Fried’s Humble Approach
Despite his success, Fried remains humble and focused on the bigger picture. “I feel like I’m throwing the ball well,” Fried said when discussing his performance. “As far as the results or the ERA–all that kind of stuff–I can’t really put a finger on it. I’ve got great teammates being able to make big plays.” Fried credits his success to his teammates’ defensive plays and their collective effort to win games.
His team-first mentality has endeared him to Yankees fans and coaches alike. He is not concerned with personal accolades but with doing his part to contribute to the team’s success. “Just going out there and trying to compete and try to win games,” Fried added. “I’m just trying to keep it as simple as that.”
Max Fried’s Future in the Bronx
With his contract securing him for the next several years, Fried’s future in the Bronx looks bright. If he continues at this pace, he’ll cement his place as one of the greatest pitchers to ever wear the Yankees uniform. His early dominance is just the beginning, and as the season progresses, the Yankees will look to him to lead their pitching staff deep into the playoffs.
Fried’s incredible start to the 2025 season is proof that he was worth every penny the Yankees invested in him. His success represents a new era for the team’s rotation, one where pitching becomes just as much of a strength as their powerhouse offense.
The Yankees’ New Ace
As the Yankees move forward in 2025, there’s no doubt that Fried will be the ace of the staff. His combination of elite stuff, durability, and consistency has made him the foundation on which the team’s postseason hopes will rest. His meteoric rise to the top of the Yankees’ pitching hierarchy has provided fans with a new sense of confidence and excitement as they look toward the future.
Max Fried is no longer just a pitcher for the Yankees—he’s a superstar who is redefining what it means to be the ace in the Bronx. The storm he’s unleashed on the mound has only just begun, and there’s no telling how much more he’ll accomplish as the season unfolds.