Just In: Dodgers lead the chase for $136M all-star pitcher
The Los Angeles Dodgers could look to bolster their rotation following an injury-filled 2024 campaign. The defending champs may sign one of the top pitchers as they look to win back-to-back championships.
While making predictions for free agents this offseason, Bleacher Report’s Erik Beaston predicted that the Dodgers will sign Atlanta Braves All-Star Max Fried.
“All three are legitimate options for the Dodgers, but if the team hopes to acquire another free agent, taking Fried or Snell would allow them a little more room to make that happen,” wrote Beaston.
Among the top-tier starting pitchers available, Fried is likely the cheapest option. Cy Young Award winners Corbin Burnes and Blake Snell will be looking for much more lucrative deals than Fried.
Spotrac projects Fried to sign a six-year, $136 million deal in free agency. Fried is a two-time All-Star, including a selection in 2024. He had a 3.25 ERA last year and struck out 166 batters, the third-highest mark of his career.
The Dodgers are in the market for a top-tier pitcher, according to USA Today’s Bob Nightengale.
“The Dodgers, who won the World Series with only three healthy starters, are pursuing at least one top-tiered free agent starter even with Shohei Ohtani, Tyler Glasnow, Dustin May, Tony Gonsolin and Clayton Kershaw all expected to join Yamamoto in the rotation this year,” write Nightengale.
Despite the returns of some star pitchers, the Dodgers could use Fried to bolster their rotation. Should they see injuries at the level they did this year, they could rely on a player like Fried.
