Breaking News: With Max Fried’s Future In flux, Braves Has Found Another Top World Series Champion

With Max Fried’s future uncertain, the Atlanta Braves are facing the possibility of losing another former World Series champion. Fried is unlikely to return to the Braves, as his future with the team remains unpredictable. He struggled in his final postseason appearance against the San Diego Padres, allowing eight hits and five runs in just two innings. Though Fried had a solid regular season with 11 wins and a 3.24 ERA, his contract is up, and teams in need of pitching will likely offer him a lucrative deal. The Braves, who have strong rotation depth with pitchers like Chris Sale and Spencer Strider, may not feel the need to overpay to retain Fried.

Another pitcher whose future is up in the air is Charlie Morton. At 40, Morton’s performance has declined, and he missed the 2024 postseason. He had eight wins and a 4.10 ERA this season, and though he could still serve as a back-end starter for a contender, including Atlanta, he is expected to retire. Even if he doesn’t, the Braves are unlikely to bring him back.

The Braves will need to bolster their rotation, particularly at the back end, rather than focus on replacing Fried. Their rotation depth was an issue this season, especially with Spencer Strider undergoing Tommy John surgery. While their farm system lacks proven pitching talent, Atlanta’s general manager, Alex Anthopoulos, has a reputation for finding bargains in free agency. The Braves may turn to the market to replace Morton and, if Fried departs, find a starter who can step up in crucial moments.

Potential replacements for Fried include Jack Flaherty, who had a strong 2024 season with a 3.17 ERA, Corbin Burnes, a dominant postseason performer with a 2.33 ERA, and Blake Snell, who excels in high-pressure situations. Snell, one of the best left-handed pitchers in the game, could be a fitting replacement for Fried if the Braves are willing to spend big.