In a stunning and unprecedented move that signals a seismic shift in the franchise’s ambitions, the Pittsburgh Pirates have acquired All-Star left-hander Max Fried, signing him to an 8-year, $218 million deal. This bold acquisition pairs Fried with Mitch Keller to form one of the most formidable one-two punches in all of Major League Baseball — and sends a clear message to the league: the Pirates are done rebuilding. They’re here to compete.
A Franchise-Defining Move
For years, Pirates fans have endured a cycle of rebuilding and false starts. But this move represents something different. Max Fried isn’t just a high-profile signing — he’s one of the best pitchers in baseball. A Cy Young finalist with the Atlanta Braves, Fried boasts a career ERA under 3.00 since 2020, and is widely regarded as one of the most consistent and dominant southpaws in the game.
Signing Fried is not only a statement of intent, it’s a testament to a front office that is finally putting its money where its mouth is.
“We’re building something real here in Pittsburgh,” said GM Ben Cherington during the press conference. “Max Fried brings elite talent, veteran leadership, and a winning pedigree. Pairing him with Mitch Keller gives us a rotation that can go toe-to-toe with anyone in the league.”
The New Duo: Fried and Keller
Mitch Keller, who just recently signed his own extension with the Pirates, has developed into a reliable ace in his own right. With a devastating fastball-slider combo and a bulldog mentality on the mound, Keller took major strides in 2023 and 2024, posting career highs in strikeouts and innings pitched.
Now, with Fried joining him at the top of the rotation, the Pirates are poised to have a top-five starting duo in all of MLB.
“This is the kind of move that shows the team believes in us,” Keller said. “Max is one of the best. I’m fired up to learn from him and go to battle together.”
What This Means for the Pirates
This is not just a pitching upgrade — it’s a culture shift. The Pirates have long been cautious spenders, often opting for budget-friendly trades and low-risk free agents. But this move bucks that trend entirely.
Max Fried’s $218 million contract is the largest in franchise history, shattering previous records and ushering in a new era of competitiveness. It’s also a sign that the Pirates are serious about keeping their young core — Oneil Cruz, Henry Davis, Ke’Bryan Hayes — together and supported by elite talent.
In short: The Pirates are finally playing big-market baseball.
The Reaction
The baseball world is buzzing with reactions to the move, with analysts praising the Pirates for their aggressiveness and foresight.
“Max Fried signing in Pittsburgh is the most exciting development for that fanbase in decades,” said ESPN’s Jeff Passan. “They now have a top-tier rotation and are setting themselves up as real contenders in the NL Central.”
Fans across Pittsburgh flooded social media with messages of joy, disbelief, and excitement. PNC Park, already one of the most beautiful ballparks in the country, could soon become one of the loudest.
Final Thoughts
It’s been a long road for Pirates fans. Years of trades, prospects, and patience. But today, that patience has been rewarded. Max Fried is not just another pitcher — he’s the kind of star that changes the trajectory of a franchise.
The Pittsburgh Pirates are no longer a team of the future. The future is now.
