Fried receives qualifying offer from Braves....

Fried receives qualifying offer from Braves….read more.

Max Fried has received a qualifying offer from the Atlanta Braves, a strategic move intended to secure Draft pick compensation should he choose to sign with another team. The Braves extended this offer, which amounts to a one-year contract worth $21.05 million, with the expectation that Fried will decline it by the deadline set for 4 p.m. ET on November 19.

Due to the Braves’ exceeding of the Competitive Balance Tax last season, they stand to gain a compensatory Draft pick after the fourth round of the 2025 Draft if Fried departs for another franchise. Fried has been a vital component of the Braves’ success during their significant rebuild, which has led to an impressive streak of six consecutive National League East titles from 2018 to 2023 and a seventh consecutive postseason berth this past year.

Fried’s journey with the Braves began in August 2017, and he quickly emerged as a standout player, achieving a career-high total of 17 wins in 2019. His performance has not only made him a fan favorite but has also garnered him recognition within the league. In 2020, he finished fifth in the voting for the prestigious Cy Young Award, and by the end of the 2022 season, he had climbed to second place in the same voting.

At 30 years old, Fried is a two-time All-Star and has maintained an impressive 2.80 ERA over the last three seasons, during which he has made 73 starts. His consistent success on the mound has positioned him as one of the top pitchers available in the upcoming free-agent market. The Braves’ decision to extend a qualifying offer reflects their recognition of Fried’s value and the hope that he may remain with the team, although they are also preparing for the possibility of his departure.

In summary, Max Fried’s situation highlights the intricate dynamics of player contracts and compensation within Major League Baseball. The Braves are poised to navigate the complexities that come with Fried’s potential exit, ensuring they are strategically positioned to benefit from any decisions made in the upcoming offseason. As Fried contemplates his future, he remains a pivotal figure in the Braves’ recent successes and a highly sought-after talent in the league. The impending deadline for his decision will be closely monitored by fans and analysts alike, as it could significantly impact both his career trajectory and the Braves’ roster planning moving forward.