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Max Fried Sets World Series Bar for Yankees as Injuries Put Rotation on His Shoulders

His ALDS Game 2 collapse is driving his preparation entering Year 2.

Overview

  • Fried declared the season a World Series or bust, saying anything short of a title is not a good year.
  • He is using his rough ALDS start against the Blue Jays—three-plus innings and seven runs allowed—as offseason motivation.
  • The left-hander backed the decision to keep the core intact, saying the roster has the talent to compete with anyone.
  • In 2025 he led MLB with 19 wins, posted a 2.86 ERA over a career-high 32 starts and 195 1/3 innings, earned a Gold Glove, and finished fourth in Cy Young voting.
  • With Gerrit Cole, Carlos Rodon and Clarke Schmidt reported on the injured list during spring training, the Yankees expect to lean heavily on Fried early.