The Boston Red Sox are preparing for a potential bidding war with their long-time rivals, the New York Yankees, over elite left-handed pitcher Max Fried, according to Bob Nightengale. If neither team secures superstar Juan Soto, Fried could emerge as the premier prize for both franchises. Fried is expected to command a contract exceeding $200 million, making him one of the most sought-after free agents this offseason.
“Fried priced himself out of Atlanta, but he’s expected to sign with either the Yankees or Red Sox,” Nightengale reported. “If Soto lands with the Mets, Fried could find himself in an intense bidding war between Boston and New York.”
The Red Sox are especially motivated to sign Fried after missing out on Blake Snell, who recently agreed to a deal with the Los Angeles Dodgers. With their starting rotation in desperate need of a top-tier left-hander, Fried has become Boston’s primary target. His ability to stabilize the pitching staff and elevate the rotation’s overall quality makes him a must-have for the Red Sox, particularly as they look to remain competitive in the ultra-tough AL East.
Fried’s performance in the 2024 season solidified his status as an elite ace. Over 29 starts, he recorded an 11-10 win-loss record, a 3.25 ERA, and 166 strikeouts. His consistent production and effectiveness on the mound make him an invaluable addition for any team vying for postseason success.
The Red Sox are also pursuing right-handed pitcher Corbin Burnes, another top-tier option. However, the San Francisco Giants are also in the mix for Burnes, meaning Boston will have to navigate fierce competition to land either pitcher. Both Fried and Burnes would be transformative additions, but securing one remains a priority for the Red Sox.
For Boston, the ultimate offseason scenario would involve signing both Fried and Juan Soto, a combination that could redefine their roster and boost their chances of contention. Landing two marquee names could also attract additional free agents, further bolstering the team’s potential for success in the coming seasons. The Red Sox’s aggressive pursuit of these stars underscores their commitment to returning to championship contention.