Max Fried’s stellar performance in a recent game has injected confidence into Atlanta Braves supporters. Despite a shaky start to the 2024 season, Fried’s remarkable pitching display, culminating in a complete game shutout with just 92 pitches, has ignited optimism among fans.
Though not always the first pitcher mentioned in discussions about the league’s most consistent performers, Fried’s recent outing underscores his place among them.
This achievement marked his third career “Maddux” – a shutout under 100 pitches in nine innings or fewer, named after the legendary Braves pitcher Greg Maddux.
Reflecting on his strategy, Fried emphasized his focus on inducing early contact, leading to effective defensive plays. His impressive stat line included six strikeouts and only three hits allowed across nine innings, marking his first complete game and shutout of the season.
This stellar performance arrives at a crucial juncture for Fried, who struggled in his initial four starts, conceding 14 earned runs and rarely pitching past the fifth inning. However, this recent success hints at a potential resurgence, potentially positioning him back into Cy Young contention.
Despite his impressive track record since 2020, maintaining a 2.77 ERA across 88 starts, Fried faces the challenge of elevating his performance, particularly with the Braves relying on him to anchor their rotation following Spencer Strider’s season-ending injury.
The current season holds significant importance for Fried, as it marks a contract year for him. His future with the Braves hangs in the balance, pending a possible contract extension or free agency.
With aspirations for a World Series title, the Braves are counting on Fried to sustain his recent form and pitch deep into games consistently. As the team leads the National League with a 16-6 record, Fried’s resurgence adds to their momentum and ambitions for success.
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