The air was filled with anticipation as Max Fried took to the mound at the Hal Steinbrenner field. There was something special in the atmosphere, as if something electric was about to unfold. And as he got ready and released the ball, it moved as if it had a life of its own! Defying every law of physics, the ball dropped, leaving the batter shaking his head in disbelief.
The ball was nothing but Max Fried special—the curveball! The pitch that was Max’s signature, one of the many weapons that cemented his stature as MLB’s premier pitcher. However, a few know that the curveball wasn’t his own creation but a skill that was passed down. Years ago, as a kid in Encino, California, he learned the skill from one of the baseball greats—Reggie Smith!
Reggie, a seven-time All-Star and a World Series winner, was more than just a mentor for Max. As he recalls, “Everything from hitting to fielding to pitching, Smith gave me that knowledge.” Further saying, “He showed me a bunch of different grips and taught me how to throw it. I’ve been able to take it from there.” Those days spent learning with Reggie later defined Fried’s career. Under Reggie’s watchful eye, Fried developed his pitch, honing it into a weapon that became nearly impossible to hit.
And over the years, Fried’s curveball evolved into a pitch so effective that it became a major reason for the New York Yankees to sign him for a record-breaking $218 million deal. The same Yankees who saw Reggie Smith in the opponent team when they lost their World Series finals against the Los Angeles Dodgers in 1981. Though Smith’s role in the 1981 World Series win over the Yankees was limited, his impact on the young pitcher from California has been undeniable.
In his first live batting practice session with the Yankees, Fried showcased his impressive skills, including his passed-down curveball that struck out Austin Wells twice in the session. Everyone, including Yankees Manager Aaron Boone, was impressed. Aaron said Max’s stuff on the mound is really good, and he is in a good spot for the next season. Max’s performance ensured promise, showing the kind of growth and maturity that comes from years of fine-tuning his craft.
For Fried, his new home in the Bronx represented more than just a different team but also a chance to further solidify his career and build on the legacy that started as a lesson in California and has now become a weapon that could propel him to the pinnacle of the game.
Ace up their sleeves: Yankees’ pitching department ready to dominate
As the New York Yankees gear up for their 2025 season, pitching has become the cornerstone of their optimism. With the record-break acquisition of Max Fried, the Yankees have ensured a dominant pitching staff alongside Gerrit Cole.
Max Fried’s arrival marks a significant improvement for a team that had struggled to find consistent support behind Cole in recent years. His ability to deliver in high-stakes situations and a 3.00 ERA over the last five seasons make him a valuable addition. Although his strikeout numbers may not rival those of other aces, his consistency and ability to limit damage have made him one of the most reliable arms in the game. With Fried now filling in the position as the Yankees’ number two starter, the Yankees’ rotation is now stronger to handle the wear and tear of a 162-game season.
On top of that, the Yankees have enhanced their pitching staff by making moves in the outfield and infield. The addition of Cody Bellinger, a Gold Glove-caliber outfielder, strengthens the Yankees’ defense, while Aaron Judge’s shift back to right field allows him to focus on his elite bat and be in a more comfortable position defensively. These moves, along with improved pitching were all that the Yankees would need to pose serious contention for the title.
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