The Atlanta Braves, already grappling with a series of injuries in the 2024 season, could face another significant setback as they look to reassert their dominance in 2025. According to Bleacher Report’s Joel Reuter, Max Fried, one of the cornerstones of their pitching staff, is expected to leave Atlanta and sign a seven-year, $175 million deal with the Toronto Blue Jays this offseason.

Max Fried, a two-time All-Star and one of the top left-handed pitchers in baseball, has been a key contributor to the Braves’ success over the past several years. However, after struggling with arm issues during the 2023 season, Fried rebounded to make 29 starts, posting a solid 3.25 ERA and striking out 166 batters over 174.1 innings. While his durability has been questioned due to past injury concerns, Reuter believes Fried still ranks as the second-best starting pitcher on the market this winter, behind only free-agent ace Aaron Nola.

In his analysis, Reuter drew a parallel between Fried’s projected contract and Aaron Nola‘s seven-year, $172 million extension with the Philadelphia Phillies signed a year earlier. Although Nola has been more consistent throughout his career, Fried’s ability to perform at an elite level when healthy positions him as a strong candidate for a substantial long-term deal. The Blue Jays, who have shown a willingness to spend heavily—having pursued Shohei Ohtani last offseason—are expected to make a serious push for Fried as they continue to build a championship-contending roster.

Toronto’s interest in Fried aligns with their ongoing efforts to strengthen their rotation. With established pitchers like Kevin Gausman and José Berríos already in place, adding Fried would provide the Blue Jays with a formidable trio of arms. This would bolster their chances as they aim to challenge the American League’s elite teams, including the defending champion Houston Astros.

Moreover, the Blue Jays have other financial flexibility after their pursuit of Juan Soto, a deal that could reshape their roster in multiple ways depending on whether Soto ultimately signs in Toronto or elsewhere. Should the Blue Jays fail to land Soto, they could allocate funds toward multiple free-agent targets like Fried, reinforcing both their pitching staff and lineup.

For the Braves, losing Fried would be a tough blow. Having been a fixture in their rotation since his debut, Fried’s departure would leave a significant void, especially considering the uncertainty surrounding their injury-plagued roster. With Fried potentially moving on to the Blue Jays, the Braves will need to reassess their pitching options heading into 2025.

In conclusion, while Fried’s departure from Atlanta is not yet confirmed, the Blue Jays appear to be in a strong position to sign the talented lefty to a lucrative long-term contract, leaving the Braves to find ways to maintain their pitching depth moving forward.