Max Fried will start on Opening Day for the New York Yankees when they begin the 2026 season against the San Francisco Giants on March 25 in San Francisco. Manager Aaron Boone confirmed the decision Monday night following the Yankees’ 5-3 Grapefruit League loss to the Pittsburgh Pirates at George M. Steinbrenner Field in Tampa, Florida.
The assignment marks the fifth Opening Day start of Fried’s career. He previously received the nod for the Atlanta Braves in 2019, 2021, 2022, and 2023. Carlos Rodón opened the season for New York last year while Fried made his Yankees debut in the second game.
The left-hander signed an eight-year, $218 million contract with New York prior to the 2025 season and delivered an impressive first year with the club. Fried finished 19-5 with a 2.86 ERA, setting career highs in wins, starts (32), innings pitched (195.1), and strikeouts (189) while earning American League All-Star honors.
Fried is expected to lead a Yankees rotation that includes Cam Schlittler, Will Warren, Ryan Weathers, and Luis Gil while Cole and Rodón work their way back from injuries.
Kyle leads sports coverage and hosts the Concrete Jungle podcast. Have a lead or question? Send it to [email protected].