Max Fried Steps Up as Yankees’ Ace Amid Gerrit Cole’s Season-Ending Injury
The New York Yankees’ ambitious plan of forming a dominant pitching duo has suffered a significant setback as Gerrit Cole underwent season-ending Tommy John surgery, placing newly acquired pitcher Max Fried in the spotlight as the team’s new ace.
Fried, 31, recently joined the Yankees on a lucrative eight-year, $218 million contract after an impressive eight-year stint with the Atlanta Braves, where he accumulated a 73-36 record with a stellar 3.07 ERA over 168 games, including 151 starts. Initially envisioned as a powerful one-two punch alongside Cole, Fried now faces heightened expectations to lead New York’s pitching staff.
Reflecting on Cole’s absence, Fried emphasized the importance of maintaining his own performance regardless of circumstances.
“At the end of the day, there’s only one Gerrit Cole,” Fried acknowledged. “But my mindset doesn’t change—every time I take the mound, my goal remains the same: give our team the best possible chance to win.”
Fried and Cole share a longstanding relationship dating back to their college recruitment visit to UCLA. The reunion in New York was anticipated to be a championship-caliber pairing, but with Cole sidelined potentially until midway through 2026, Fried must embrace the increased pressure and responsibility.
Despite the unfortunate news, Cole remains optimistic about his eventual return and reaffirmed his commitment to the Yankees’ World Series aspirations.
“From the moment I dreamed about putting on the Yankees pinstripes, I’ve envisioned bringing another championship to New York,” Cole wrote in an emotional Instagram post. “That dream is still alive, and I’m determined more than ever to see it through.”
In Cole’s absence, Fried is slated to lead the rotation, starting with Opening Day against the Milwaukee Brewers at Yankee Stadium on March 27.
Fried remains composed under the heightened expectations, understanding the season is a marathon, not a sprint.
“I approach Opening Day just like every other start,” Fried said. “It’s one game out of hopefully 33 this season, and my goal is to consistently perform and support my team every step of the way.”
