The Toronto Blue Jays are making waves this offseason as they intensify their pursuit of top free agent pitcher Max Fried. Fried, a left-handed ace formerly with the Atlanta Braves, is considered one of the most sought-after arms in the 2024 free-agent market. A three-time Gold Glove winner and two-time All-Star, Fried’s career includes an impressive 73-36 record with a 3.07 ERA. Despite a slightly underwhelming 2024 season by his standards—posting a 3.25 ERA across 29 starts—Fried remains a premier option for teams looking to bolster their pitching staff.
The Blue Jays are reportedly among the frontrunners for Fried’s services, competing with AL East rivals like the Boston Red Sox, Baltimore Orioles, and even the New York Yankees. With MLB Trade Rumors projecting Fried’s contract to land in the range of six years and $156 million, Toronto would need approval from its ownership group, Rogers Communications, to commit such a significant financial outlay. Still, this would align with the team’s recent history of bold moves, such as the acquisitions of Hyun-Jin Ryu, George Springer, and Kevin Gausman in past offseason.
Landing Fried would significantly enhance the Blue Jays’ rotation, which already features strong performers like Gausman, José Berríos, and Chris Bassitt. It would also provide a veteran presence as Alek Manoah and Ricky Tiedemann work their way back from injuries. Fried’s consistent ability to deliver quality starts could stabilize a staff that struggled with depth issues during the 2024 season.
The battle for Fried’s signature is fierce, with teams across both leagues expressing interest. The Yankees, known for their aggressive offseason strategies, are believed to be serious contenders, as are the Red Sox, who are looking to bolster their pitching after a disappointing 2024 campaign. The Orioles, flush with young talent and coming off a playoff appearance, are also in the mix but are reportedly hesitant about making such a large financial commitmen.
Fried’s decision is expected soon, as teams aim to finalize their rosters ahead of spring training. If the Blue Jays manage to secure the left-hander, it would mark a significant move toward reclaiming contention in the highly competitive AL East. The addition of Fried would not only address a key need but also send a strong signal to the rest of the league that Toronto is serious about contending in 2025.
Fans and analysts alike are eagerly watching the situation unfold, with many viewing Fried’s eventual landing spot as one of the defining moments of this offseason. For Toronto, securing Fried could be the piece that shifts the balance of power in their favor as they prepare for the upcoming campaign.
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