"I expect him to go all the way through" - Braves GM Alex Anthopoulos on Max Fried's future amid contract and injury concerns
Max Fried has just a one-year deal with the Atlanta Braves and has had some injury struggles this season. Despite that, he's back and ready to pitch the Atlanta Braves to another World Series title. Health is a major concern for the Braves' staff.
Not only did they lose Spencer Strider for the entire season months ago, but Chris Sale has a history of injuries. He's missed a lot of time over the last few years, so his health is a question mark as is Fried's right now.
However, GM Alex Anthopolous isn't very concerned about that. The Braves focused a lot on offense at the deadline, including bringing Jorge Soler back, and Anthopolous believes the pitching will hold up – Fried especially.
"Our goal is, one, get to October and, two, hopefully get through October," Antholopolous said on MLB Network. "I expect Max to be fine. We're not concerned about it. I expect him to go all the way through."
Anthopolous also touched on the contract situation. He said it's always a topic of conversation for any player in a walk year. The GM hasn't and said he will not talk with the media about ongoing negotiations, and he didn't for Fried.
He said that Fried has been sincere about his love for Atlanta and his desire to stay and that the feeling is mutual. As for how a deal gets done, that remains to be seen.
Max Fried making first start off IL
Max Fried is finally healthy again. The left-hander had been dealing with forearm issues and had been on the 15-day injured list since July 21. All things considered, it was a short stay on the IL given that forearm issues can lead to major injuries.
Fried was reinstated on Sunday for a start against the Miami Marlins. Dylan Lee was optioned back to the minor leagues to make room for him.
The Braves have trimmed the NL East deficit to just five games in recent weeks, giving them and Fried a real shot at running down the Philadelphia Phillies.