Max Fried has quietly become one of the most reliable and dominant starting pitchers in Major League Baseball. While other names in the Braves’ rotation, like Spencer Strider, often grab headlines with their velocity and strikeout numbers, Fried’s success is built on a foundation of precision, movement, and an uncanny ability to induce weak contact. He’s not the flashiest pitcher, but his consistency and effectiveness have made him an invaluable asset to the Atlanta Braves, helping them secure multiple division titles and a World Series championship.
Hallo Reader viral.erudisi.com! In a sport often defined by power and raw talent, Fried represents a different archetype of pitching excellence. He’s a craftsman, meticulously honing his skills and relying on his intelligence and experience to outsmart hitters. His journey to becoming a frontline starter wasn’t always smooth, but his perseverance and dedication have transformed him into a true ace.
Early Life and Career
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Maxwell "Max" Fried was born on January 18, 1994, in Santa Monica, California. From a young age, he displayed a natural talent for baseball, excelling as both a hitter and a pitcher. He attended Harvard-Westlake School, a prestigious private school known for its strong academic and athletic programs. It was there that Fried truly blossomed, showcasing his potential as a future MLB star.
During his high school career, Fried established himself as one of the top pitching prospects in the nation. His fastball reached the low-to-mid 90s, and he possessed a sharp curveball that baffled opposing hitters. He also demonstrated impressive command and poise on the mound, traits that would serve him well at the professional level.
Fried’s talent didn’t go unnoticed by Major League scouts. In the 2012 MLB Draft, he was selected seventh overall by the San Diego Padres. The Padres were impressed by his potential and believed he had the tools to become a frontline starter in the future.
Early Career Challenges
After being drafted, Fried signed with the Padres and began his professional career in their minor league system. However, his early career was plagued by injuries, hindering his development and preventing him from reaching his full potential.
In 2014, Fried underwent Tommy John surgery, a procedure to repair a torn ulnar collateral ligament in his elbow. The surgery sidelined him for an extended period, forcing him to miss the entire 2015 season. It was a difficult setback for the young pitcher, but he remained determined to overcome the adversity.
Trade to the Atlanta Braves
In December 2014, while recovering from Tommy John surgery, Fried was traded to the Atlanta Braves as part of a package for outfielder Justin Upton. The Braves saw potential in Fried despite his injury history and believed he could be a valuable addition to their organization.
The trade to Atlanta proved to be a turning point in Fried’s career. The Braves’ organization provided him with the support and resources he needed to fully recover from his injury and develop into the pitcher they believed he could be.
Rise to Prominence
After spending several years in the Braves’ minor league system, Fried finally made his Major League debut in 2017. He initially pitched out of the bullpen, showing flashes of potential but struggling with consistency.
In 2018, Fried transitioned to a starting role and began to establish himself as a valuable member of the Braves’ rotation. He demonstrated improved command and control, and his stuff became sharper and more consistent.
Breakthrough Season
Fried’s breakout season came in 2019. He posted a 17-6 record with a 4.02 ERA in 30 starts. He showcased his ability to pitch deep into games and consistently give the Braves a chance to win.
During the shortened 2020 season, Fried continued to impress, finishing with a 7-0 record and a 2.25 ERA. He emerged as one of the top pitchers in the National League and solidified his status as the Braves’ ace.
World Series Champion
In 2021, Fried played a crucial role in the Braves’ World Series championship run. He pitched brilliantly throughout the postseason, including a dominant performance in Game 6 of the World Series against the Houston Astros, where he tossed six shutout innings to help secure the title for Atlanta.
Fried’s performance in the 2021 postseason cemented his legacy as one of the greatest pitchers in Braves’ history. He demonstrated his ability to perform under pressure and deliver when his team needed him most.
Pitching Style and Strengths
Max Fried is not a traditional power pitcher who relies on overpowering hitters with velocity. Instead, he relies on a combination of movement, command, and deception to get hitters out.
His primary pitch is a sinking fastball that he throws in the low-to-mid 90s. The sinker is a highly effective pitch that induces ground balls and weak contact. He also throws a curveball, slider, and changeup, all of which he uses to keep hitters off balance.
Fried’s greatest strength is his command. He has excellent control of his pitches and is able to locate them precisely where he wants them. This allows him to work the edges of the strike zone and induce hitters to chase pitches out of the zone.
He is also known for his poise and composure on the mound. He doesn’t get rattled easily and is able to maintain his focus even in high-pressure situations. This mental toughness is a key component of his success.
Awards and Recognition
- World Series Champion (2021)
- All-MLB First Team (2022)
- Gold Glove Award (2020, 2021, 2022)
- Platinum Glove Award (2022)
Beyond the Field
Outside of baseball, Fried is known for his intelligence and his interest in a variety of subjects. He is an avid reader and enjoys learning about history and current events. He is also involved in several charitable organizations, using his platform to give back to the community.
The Future
At 30 years old, Max Fried is still in the prime of his career. He has established himself as one of the top pitchers in baseball and is poised to continue his success for years to come. He is a key component of the Atlanta Braves’ success and will be counted on to lead their pitching staff for the foreseeable future.
The Braves have him under contract, and they see him as a vital part of their long-term plans. He has the potential to win multiple Cy Young Awards and lead the Braves to more World Series championships.
Conclusion
Max Fried’s journey to becoming an ace pitcher is a testament to his perseverance, dedication, and talent. He has overcome injuries and setbacks to establish himself as one of the most reliable and effective pitchers in baseball.
He is a true craftsman on the mound, relying on his intelligence, command, and movement to outsmart hitters. He is a valuable asset to the Atlanta Braves, both on and off the field. As he continues his career, he has the potential to achieve even greater success and cement his legacy as one of the greatest pitchers of his generation. He is a player to watch, a leader in the clubhouse, and a true example of what it means to be a professional athlete. His quiet demeanor belies a fierce competitor, and his consistent performance speaks volumes about his dedication to his craft. Max Fried is, without a doubt, a cornerstone of the Atlanta Braves’ success.