The New York Mets just concluded what turned out to be a thrilling season, overcoming numerous challenges to not only reach the postseason but advance to the NLCS. They came within two wins of their first World Series appearance since 2015.
Despite the impressive season, the Mets fell short of their ultimate goal of winning the World Series. This shortfall should motivate them to strengthen the team this offseason with a World Series title in 2025 in mind.
While Juan Soto is the free agent many are connecting to the Mets—and for good reason—they’ll need more than just Soto to reach the top. One key area for improvement is the starting rotation, especially since Sean Manaea, Luis Severino, and Jose Quintana—their top innings pitchers—are all set to become free agents.
Fortunately, there are several appealing rotation options that David Stearns could explore. One notable candidate, Max Fried, has been linked to the Mets by Jim Bowden of The Athletic (subscription required).
Mets can play spoiler against the Braves by stealing Max Fried away from Atlanta
For many Mets fans, signing Max Fried would feel like a dream come true—not only because he’s a highly talented pitcher, but also due to his entire career so far being with their biggest rival, the Atlanta Braves. Fried has spent all eight of his MLB seasons with the Braves, earning two All-Star selections, three Gold Gloves, and helping secure the 2021 World Series by pitching six scoreless innings in the deciding game.
Another reason Mets fans would be thrilled to see Fried join is his dominance against New York, a team he’s faced more than any other. Over his career, he’s posted an impressive 2.48 ERA in 23 appearances (18 starts) against the Mets, with a 2.57 ERA at Citi Field. Seeing Fried pitching effectively for New York, rather than against them, would be a refreshing change.
Fried may have been somewhat underrated during his time in Atlanta, but his career 3.07 ERA underscores his reliability as a pitcher. While his postseason performances have been inconsistent, his strong regular-season record would be a huge asset to any team he signs with.
As a free agent, it’s very possible—if not likely—that Fried could leave Atlanta this offseason. While the Braves could re-sign him, Alex Anthopoulos’ history doesn’t suggest he’d be quick to offer the six-year, $174 million deal that many expect Fried to command on the open market.
Though injuries have been a concern in recent seasons, Fried remains a bona fide ace when healthy, posting a 3.25 ERA across 29 starts for Atlanta this season and earning another All-Star selection.
Watching Fried leave the NL East would be a relief for Mets fans, but seeing him stay in the division and join the Mets would be even sweeter for New York while devastating for Braves fans.
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