Max Fried Returns to the Mound as Yankees Eye Key Win Against Blue Jays
Max Fried is back—and just in time.
After being sidelined with a blister on his left index finger, Fried is set to return to the mound for the Yankees in what feels like a pivotal moment of the season. It’s been 10 days since his last outing, a shortened appearance against the Cubs on July 12, where he exited after just three innings. Now, the ace left-hander is ready to go against the AL East-leading Toronto Blue Jays at Rogers Centre.
This isn’t just another game. The Yankees are three games back of the Jays, and with only one more regular season series between these two rivals left—set for early September—this finale could carry significant postseason implications.
Fried comes in with an impressive 11-3 record and a stellar 2.43 ERA. He’s already faced Toronto once this season, earning a win while posting a solid 3.00 ERA in that game. Though George Springer managed to take him deep in their last matchup (one of two home runs that day), Fried still held his ground, and the Yankees are hoping he can do it again—this time at full strength.
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According to manager Aaron Boone, Fried completed two bullpen sessions leading up to this start and showed no signs of discomfort. He even threw off flat ground earlier in the week, testing things out with a Band-Aid on the problem finger. Boone made it clear there will be no pitch restrictions unless something unexpected happens.
The timing couldn’t be more critical. Since mid-June, the Yankees have struggled, going 15-20 overall and just 11-17 within their division. Boone knows the team has to improve against AL East opponents if they’re going to push toward October.
“We know we’ve got to be better,” Boone said. “There’s a quiet confidence in the group, but it’s time to show it on the field.”
On the other side, Toronto counters with veteran right-hander Chris Bassitt, who gave the Yankees trouble earlier this month. He went 5.2 innings in that July 3 game, allowing three runs and striking out nine en route to an 8-5 win.
But with Fried back, the Yankees have their top arm in place. The pressure’s on, the spotlight is bright, and this is the kind of game that can shift momentum for the stretch run.
So tonight isn’t just about Fried’s return—it’s about setting a tone, making a statement, and closing that divisional gap. The Yankees have their ace on the hill, and everything rides on how this one plays out.
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