The Los Angeles Dodgers are still enjoying the glory of their 2024 World Series victory, but they face key roster gaps to address for the upcoming season.
One area of interest is free agent shortstop Willy Adames, who appears to be a natural fit for the team. However, there’s speculation that president of baseball operations Andrew Friedman might prioritize pursuing two-time All-Star pitcher Max Fried instead of Adames.
The Dodgers’ projected 2025 rotation has depth, but questions remain about the health and consistency of some arms. With Jack Flaherty and Walker Buehler entering free agency, it’s no surprise that Los Angeles is exploring options to bolster their pitching staff. Fried, with his impressive track record for the Atlanta Braves, would be a standout addition. The Santa Monica native has a career record of 73-36 with a 3.07 ERA, 1.16 WHIP, and 863 strikeouts across 884 1/3 innings since debuting in 2017.
While a starting shortstop like Adames could further enhance the Dodgers’ offense, competition for his services is fierce. According to The Athletic’s Ken Rosenthal, a bidding war might not align with Los Angeles’ strategy, making Fried a potential pivot.
Ryan Finkelstein of Just Baseball predicts this scenario might unfold. He projects Adames signing an eight-year, $192 million deal with the Philadelphia Phillies and the Dodgers committing $190 million to Fried over seven years.
“Whoever lands Fried is getting a pitcher with a 3.07 career ERA, who has surpassed 165 innings pitched four times in the last five full seasons since 2019,” Finkelstein writes. “If the Braves intended to keep Fried, they likely would’ve extended him by now. If he departs, joining baseball’s best team would be an excellent fit for Fried, who could command at least six years and over $30 million annually in free agency.”
Be the first to comment