Confirmed deal : Yankees could trade workhorse lefty starter if they sign Max Fried

 

The New York Yankees have shown interest in free-agent ace Max Fried (and Corbin Burnes), and if they successfully sign him, the rotation dynamic could shift significantly. Fried’s consistency, durability, and ground-ball tendencies make him an ideal addition to any pitching staff, especially one looking to dominate both in the regular season and postseason. However, adding Fried to the mix could push the Yankees to re-evaluate the role of Nestor Cortes in their rotation.

 

With Fried potentially slotting in as the No. 2 starter behind Gerrit Cole, and Carlos Rodón moving to the No. 3 spot, the Yankees would have a surplus of left-handed starters. While depth is valuable, having three lefties in the rotation—Fried, Rodón, and Cortes—might not provide the balance the Yankees desire. This situation could prompt the team to explore flipping Cortes for assets that address other needs, such as bullpen depth or infield reinforcements.

 

Max Fried has established himself as one of MLB’s most reliable left-handed starters. In 2024, the 30-year-old tossed 174.1 innings, posting a 3.25 ERA with a 72.5% left-on-base rate and a 58.8% ground-ball rate. His 3.4 WAR underscores his value, and considering he has surpassed 165 innings in three of his last four seasons, Fried offers both durability and effectiveness.

 

Fried’s ability to induce ground balls (58.8%) is a major asset, particularly in Yankee Stadium, where limiting fly balls can be critical. His strong track record, postseason experience, and elite command would make him a key piece for the Yankees’ World Series aspirations, likely locking him into the No. 2 spot in the rotation behind Gerrit Cole.

 

 

Nestor Cortes has been a fan favorite and a solid contributor for the Yankees, but his role could become redundant if Fried is signed. In 2024, Cortes posted a 3.77 ERA over 174.1 innings, proving that he can be a reliable starter when healthy. However, his durability has been a concern, with injuries sidelining him for stretches in recent seasons.

 

 

Cortes’ crafty style and ability to keep hitters off balance make him valuable, but with Fried and Rodón already in the mix, the Yankees might see an opportunity to reallocate Cortes’ value. Trading him could allow the Yankees to address other areas of the roster that need reinforcement, such as the bullpen or the infield.