Max Fried Exits Early with Elbow Soreness, Plans for Imaging
New York Yankees starter Max Fried was pulled from today's game after three innings due to left elbow posterior soreness. He is scheduled to undergo imaging tomorrow, according to Chris Kirschner of The Athletic.
Following the game, Fried expressed optimism about the injury. He told reporters he believes the issue is short-term and hopes to make his next start.
A History of Elbow Trouble
The left-hander's medical history is a significant part of this story. Fried underwent Tommy John surgery in 2014. More recently:
- 2023: Missed approximately three months with a forearm strain.
- 2024: Spent two weeks on the Injured List due to forearm neuritis.
Fried signed an eight-year, $218 million contract with the Yankees after the 2024 season. Last year, he was outstanding, posting a 2.86 ERA over 32 starts and finishing fourth in Cy Young voting.
Rotation Implications
The Yankees entered today's game with a 27-16 record and the second-best rotation ERA in MLB (3.07). Fried himself carried a 2.91 ERA prior to this start.
The current rotation mix is already complex. It includes:
- Carlos Rodón (recently off the IL)
- Cam Schlittler
- Ryan Weathers
- Will Warren
- Gerrit Cole (nearing return from Tommy John surgery, expected to need at least one more rehab start)
A potential IL stint for Fried could actually simplify some short-term rotation decisions. Luis Gil was recently optioned after struggling and has since been shut down due to shoulder inflammation. Possible short-term replacement options include Elmer Rodríguez, Brendan Beck, Paul Blackburn, or Ryan Yarbrough.