MLB Rumors: Max Fried Done In Atlanta?

The recent extension of Zack Wheeler by the Philadelphia Phillies has made him the 4th highest-paid pitcher of all time, and recent reports suggest this could significantly impact the future of Atlanta Braves' star pitcher, Max Fried.

Wheeler's record-setting three-year, $126 million deal has set a daunting precedent for pitcher contracts, leaving Fried's tenure in Atlanta uncertain.

Despite Fried's stellar performance and crucial role in the Braves' rotation, the financial constraints imposed by Wheeler's colossal contract have cast doubts on Atlanta's ability to retain him, according to Zachary Rotman.

If the Braves extend Max Fried, opening day is gonna be feeling like this at Truist Park: #ForTheA pic.twitter.com/b2pfIbfczg

— Blake Newsom (@NewsomSportsATL) February 27, 2024

The 30-year-old posted a 2.55 ERA, 1.13 WHIP, with 80 strikeouts across 77.2 innings and 14 starts.

Fried, who has emerged as one of the premier left-handed pitchers in the National League, now faces the daunting prospect of departing from the Braves, given the likelihood of his contract demands surpassing Atlanta's and GM Alex Anthopoulos' comfort zone.

With Fried set to hit free agency soon and the Braves' history of prioritizing cost-effective acquisitions, as was seen with the team letting Freddie Freeman and Dansby Swanson go, the possibility of him leaving Atlanta looms large, as noted by Rotman.

SIGN MAX FRIED! https://t.co/sbyP7kK0zL

— BillShanks (@BillShanks) February 29, 2024

Over the last four seasons, Fried holds a 2.66 ERA, 1.07 WHIP, with 458 strikeouts across 484.2 innings and 83 starts.

Wheeler's extension has reshaped the landscape for star pitchers like Fried, potentially signaling the end of his tenure with the Braves. Photo Credit: Brett Davis-USA TODAY Sports