The Boston Red Sox made aggressive moves this offseason in hopes of bouncing back from a mediocre 81-81 campaign in 2024.
In many ways, Boston fans are rejuvenated thanks to owner John Henry remembering that the Red Sox are a prestigious major market organization that shouldn’t be afraid to spend money.
Having said that, one of their biggest offseason swings came up short – when prized left-hander Max Fried chose their arch-rival instead.
Fried, a two-time All-Star and longtime Atlanta Brave, signed a massive eight-year, $218 million deal with the New York Yankees, snubbing a serious pursuit from Boston.
The 31-year-old southpaw made his spring debut against the Red Sox on Tuesday, tossing 4.1 shutout innings with three strikeouts and zero walks at George M. Steinbrenner Field.
After the game, Fried revealed that he had met with Boston’s leadership and gave the organization real consideration before ultimately deciding the Bronx was the better fit.
“They were interested. I met with their coaching staff and front office. Really nice great people. Definitely considered them.
“Everyone that I talked to was really great. At the end of the day, I don’t know if I could really put my finger on it. It was just more of a gut feeling. I felt like this was the right place for me.”
The Red Sox, who finished third in the AL East last season, were looking to anchor their rotation with an ace.
Fried, one of the most consistent starters in baseball over the past several years, certainly fit that mold. In eight seasons with Atlanta, Fried compiled a 73-36 record, a 3.07 ERA, and 863 strikeouts across 884.1 innings.
While missing out on Fried was a major blow, Boston didn’t sit idle.
The club pivoted by trading for left-hander Garrett Crochet and later signed star third baseman Alex Bregman and right-hander Walker Buehler in free agency – two major additions that reshaped the roster.
Still, seeing Fried suit up in pinstripes adds extra sting for Sox fans, especially as he settles into the top of the Yankees’ rotation.
As Opening Day rapidly approaches, the AL East battle looks poised to intensify – and Fried has already had his first taste of the historic rivalry.
With ace Gerrit Cole sidelined for the season, Fried will be relied upon more than ever.
What are your thoughts on Fried’s decision to choose the Yankees over the Red Sox???
