In a major move to solidify their starting rotation for the future, the Atlanta Braves have signed star left-hander Max Fried to a 5-year, $125 million contract extension, ensuring that one of baseball’s most consistent pitchers remains in Atlanta through the 2029 season.
Braves President of Baseball Operations Alex Anthopoulos made the deal official Friday morning, just days before Fried was expected to hit the open market in what would have been a highly competitive free-agent sweepstakes.
“Max has been a cornerstone of our pitching staff and a leader on and off the field,” said Anthopoulos in a team statement. “Keeping him in a Braves uniform was a top priority. He’s the kind of player and person you build a franchise around.”
Fried, 30, has been with the Braves since 2017 and was a key force during the club’s 2021 World Series run. He boasts a career ERA under 3.50 and has earned both All-Star and Gold Glove honors along the way.
The deal nearly doubles Fried’s previous annual salary and provides the southpaw with long-term stability while the Braves continue building a roster capable of annual contention.
Fried expressed gratitude in a press conference following the announcement:
“Atlanta has always felt like home. I love this organization, this fan base, and the group of guys in that clubhouse. I’m thrilled to stay and keep competing for championships.”
The new contract kicks in at the start of the 2026 season and includes a full no-trade clause for the first three years, giving Fried both security and a vote of confidence from the front office.
With Fried now off the market, the Braves have made a strong statement of intent: they’re not just planning for the present — they’re anchoring their future in proven excellence.
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