The New York Mets are actively seeking to bolster their starting rotation for the 2025 season. With the departures of key pitchers Sean Manaea, Luis Severino, and José Quintana to free agency, the team faces significant gaps to fill. David Stearns, the Mets’ president of baseball operations, has identified Baltimore Orioles ace Corbin Burnes as a top priority in free agency. However, if Burnes signs elsewhere, the Mets may consider pursuing longtime Atlanta Braves ace Max Fried as an alternative.
Fried has been a cornerstone of the Braves’ rotation, known for his consistency and effectiveness on the mound. His potential availability in free agency presents an intriguing option for the Mets as they aim to strengthen their pitching staff. The team’s strategy this offseason will be crucial in determining the composition and success of their 2025 rotation.
Max Fried would indeed be a strong addition for any team, including the New York Mets, as they look to rebuild their rotation for 2025. Over his career with the Atlanta Braves, Fried has been a model of consistency, highlighted by his impressive 73-36 record, 3.07 ERA, and over 860 strikeouts in nearly 900 innings. His steady performance during his contract year, including a 3.25 ERA across 174 1/3 innings, reinforces his value as one of the premier arms available in free agency.
While Fried will command a significant deal, MLB Trade Rumors projects his next contract to be a six-year, $156 million agreement—substantially less than what Corbin Burnes might command at over $200 million. This could make Fried a more financially viable target for the Mets if Burnes opts to sign elsewhere.
Bleacher Report recently ranked the Mets fifth among Fried’s potential landing spots, suggesting that while New York is a contender, they may face stiff competition for the left-hander. His familiarity with the NL East and the Mets’ need for a high-end, experienced starter could make him an appealing fit in Queens.
Signing Max Fried would undoubtedly be a strong move for the New York Mets as they look to revamp their rotation. As Zachary D. Rymer notes, while Corbin Burnes or even Blake Snell might provide comparable or superior cases, Fried offers unique value. His proven track record, including a stellar 2.57 ERA at Citi Field during his time with the Braves, adds a layer of intrigue. The prospect of poaching such a pivotal player from an NL East rival is an added bonus.
Fried’s potential impact goes beyond his numbers; he would bring veteran stability to a rotation in flux while making a strategic statement against division competition. However, competition for Fried will be stiff, with the Toronto Blue Jays, Boston Red Sox, Los Angeles Dodgers, and Baltimore Orioles all ranking ahead of the Mets as potential destinations. Each of these teams has the resources and incentive to pursue him, making the Mets’ pursuit of Fried a critical offseason storyline.
