Max Fried Landing Spots: 3 teams likely to pursue 2x All-Star ace pitcher

One of the most intriguing names who is expected to be available this offseason is Max Fried. Although the Atlanta Braves have extended a qualifying offer for 2025, it is widely expected that Fried will decline the offer, insteading opting to pursue a long-term lucrative deal on the open market.

The 2021 World Series champion was excellent yet again this past season, earning the second All-Star selection of his career. Over 174.1 innings, Max Fried posted a strong 3.25 ERA with 166 strikeouts. At only 30-years-old, Fried is still in his prime and should draw plenty of interest across the league if and when he declines the Braves' qualifying offer.

Here's a look at 3 potential landing spots for Max Fried in free agency

#1 - Boston Red Sox

The Boston Red Sox are expected to pursue starting pitching this offseason and Max Fried could be an ideal free agent target. The southpaw would instantly become the club's ace atop their pitching rotation, and could provide the Red Sox with much-needed consistency.

While the Boston Red Sox had some solid performances from the likes of Kutter Crawford, Brayan Bello, and Tanner Houck in 2024, Fried is simply a different tier of starting pitcher. If the front office can bring Fried to Fenway Park, it could go a long way towards returning to the postseason.

#2 - Baltimore Orioles

The Baltimore Orioles are going into the market for a big-name starting pitcher this offseason and Fried fits the bill. Like the Red Sox, the Orioles are in need of improving their rotation heading into 2025, and although they have extended a qualifying offer to Corbin Burnes, he is expected to reject it in favor of free agency.

Max Fried may not be in the same echelon as Burnes, but he is an ideal replacement if the former Cy Young leaves. The Orioles have a roster built to contend for the World Series in 2025, which could tempt Fried into making the move to Maryland.

#3 - New York Mets

It would be foolish to count the New York Mets out of the running for any notable free agent superstar. Owner Steve Cohen is expected to put his money where his mouth is this offseason, with Juan Soto reportedly being the number one target for the team.

That being said, if the Mets are going to contend for the World Series, they will need to address their pitching rotation. With the potential departures of Sean Manaea, Jose Quintana, and Luis Severino, there are glaring holes in the team's rotation. Plus, taking Max Fried away from the Atlanta Braves could be seen as a major coup for the New York Mets.