Unprecedented Deal for Jewish Baseball Star Max Fried
Max Fried's Early Career and Rise to Stardom
Max Fried, who will turn 31 in January, entered the MLB off-season as a highly sought-after free agent. His eight-year run with the Atlanta Braves was nothing short of dazzling, during which he achieved numerous accolades including one World Series title. His performance on the field has been consistently outstanding, with a 3.07 ERA in 151 career starts. He is a two-time All-Star, a three-time Gold Glove winner, a Silver Slugger winner, and a 2021 World Series champion. In 2024 alone, he posted an 11-10 record with a 3.25 ERA and 166 strikeouts in 174.1 innings. His dominance on the mound has made him a force to be reckoned with.His success has not gone unnoticed, and he has become a role model for young Jewish players aspiring to make it in the big leagues. Growing up in Los Angeles and worshiping Hall of Famer Sandy Koufax, Fried has carried the torch of Jewish baseball excellence.
The Impact of the Contract on Fried's Career
Fried's $218 million contract with the New York Yankees is a game-changer for his career. It solidifies his position as one of the top pitchers in the league and provides him with the financial security to focus on his game. This deal also sets a new benchmark for left-handed pitchers in baseball history, topping David Price's seven-year, $217 million contract signed with the Boston Red Sox in 2015.For Jewish players, Fried's contract is a source of inspiration. It shows that they can achieve great things in the sport and command significant financial rewards. His signing also adds to the growing number of Jewish players in the MLB, creating a sense of community and pride.
The Yankees' Offseason and Fried's Role
The Yankees entered the off-season with a mix of success and disappointment. They came off a World Series defeat and the loss of superstar outfielder Juan Soto, a generational talent who signed with the crosstown Mets. However, the addition of Max Fried gives them a new boost and a potential ace for their pitching staff.Fried's presence in the Yankees' rotation will be crucial as they look to bounce back and compete for championships in the coming years. His experience and talent will be an asset to the team, and he will be expected to lead by example on and off the field.
Comparison with Other Jewish Players and Free Agents
Fried's contract is not only significant for him but also for Jewish players in general. It is by far the most lucrative contract ever for a Jewish player, more than doubling fellow free agent Alex Bregman's five-year, $100 million contract extension with the Houston Astros in 2019. Shawn Green had previously signed for $84 million with the Los Angeles Dodgers in 1999.While Bregman is currently considered the top free agent hitter still available, Fried's contract shows that pitchers can also command huge financial deals. Jewish players like Joc Pederson, Kevin Pillar, and Rowdy Tellez are also free agents, adding to the excitement in the market.