Max Fried Injury News & Updates

Fried (finger) will start Monday against the Phillies in Game 2 of the NLDS.

Fried finished the regular season on the injured list due to a blister on his left index finger, but the issue seems to have subsided as Atlanta prepares to begin its postseason run. Fried recently faced the Phillies on Sept. 12, allowing just one run on four hits and two walks while striking out six batters through five innings.

Fried (finger) remains on track to start Game 2 of the NLDS on Monday after throwing five innings in a simulated game Tuesday, David O'Brien of The Athletic reports.

Fried wore a protective bandage across the blister on his left index finger, which he won't be able to wear in an actual game, but he avoided any setbacks in the 76-pitch outing against his Atlanta teammates and should get the call in NLDS Game 2 next week after Spencer Strider handles Game 1. When healthy this season, Fried delivered a sharp 2.55 ERA, 1.13 WHIP and 80:18 K:BB in 77.2 innings (14 starts) for the National League East champions.

Fried (finger) is scheduled to pitch in a moderated game Tuesday, which lines him up to start Game 2 of the NLDS on Oct. 9, Mark Bowman of MLB.com reports.

Fried landed on the 15-day injured list Sept. 22 with a blister on his index finger, but the team was always hoping to get him back for the postseason. The left-hander should be good to go assuming he has no issues when throwing Tuesday, which would be huge for Atlanta since Charlie Morton (finger) also went down with an injury shortly after Fried.

Fried was placed on the 15-day injured list Friday with a blister on his left index finger.

Fried developed the blister during Thursday's win over the Nationals. While Atlanta figures to get the left-hander back for the postseason, Fried will not make another regular season start. He finishes with an 8-1 record, 2.55 ERA, 1.13 WHIP and 80:18 K:BB over 77.2 innings covering 14 starts.

Fried developed a blister on his left index finger during his start Thursday against the Nationals, Justin Toscano of The Atlanta Journal-Constitution reports.

Fried shut down the Nationals to earn the win, allowing one earned run on three hits and one walk while striking out seven across six innings. Adding to the good news is the fact that he's expected to pitch through the blister and not miss his final start of the regular season.

Fried (8-1) earned the win Thursday over the Nationals, allowing one run on three hits and one walk over six innings. He struck out seven.

Fried hasn't missed a beat since returning from an elbow injury Aug. 4. The seven-year veteran has made nine starts during that span, producing a 2.78 ERA, 1.16 WHIP and 55:12 K:BB over 51.2 innings. Fried is scheduled to make his next start at home against the Cubs.

Fried (finger) is scheduled to start Thursday's game in Washington, Justin Toscano of The Atlanta Journal-Constitution reports.

Fried got the go-ahead to return to Atlanta's rotation after throwing a bullpen session Monday without any protective tape covering the small blister on his left hand. The 29-year-old southpaw hasn't appeared in a game since early last week, but it never seemed to be a serious concern for the NL East champions.

Fried threw a bullpen session Monday without any protective tape covering the blister on his left index finger, Mark Bowman of MLB.com reports.

Fried was skipped on his last turn through rotation because of the blister, but he is expected to return to action at some point during Atlanta's upcoming four-game series in Washington, which begins Thursday. It seems like the NL East champions are simply playing things cautiously with the 29-year-old southpaw, who boasts a 2.64 ERA and 73:13 K:BB in 71.2 innings (13 starts) this season.

Fried isn't expected to make his next turn through the Atlanta rotation until the team's four-game series in Washington over the weekend after he developed a hot spot on his finger in his most recent start this past Tuesday in Philadelphia, Justin Toscano of The Atlanta Journal-Constitution reports.

Atlanta isn't overly concerned about the issue, and with the National League East division crown already secured, the team can afford to proceed cautiously with one of its top starters. Even if Fried is cleared to pitch this weekend as anticipated, he could still have his workload managed to some degree as Atlanta looks to ensure that he's not too overworked heading into what the team anticipates will be a long postseason run.

Fried did not factor into the decision Tuesday, allowing one run on four hits and two walks over five innings in a 7-6 win over the Phillies. He struck out six.

The 29-year-old left-hander's sole earned run came via the long ball when Nick Castellanos took him deep in the second inning. Fried blanked Philadelphia otherwise, but despite leaving with a 6-1 lead, he settled for a no-decision due to Philadelphia's late comeback. Tuesday's outing marked Fried's sixth consecutive start in which he limited the opposition to three or fewer earned runs, posting a 4-0 record with a 2.78 ERA, 1.29 WHIP and 36:10 K:BB across 35.2 innings during that span. Fried is slated for a rematch with the Phillies in his next start, which is tentatively scheduled for early next week.

Fried (7-1) earned the win over St. Louis on Thursday, allowing three runs on six hits and two walks while striking out four batters over six innings.

Fried came into Thursday having allowed just two runs over 13 frames while striking out 18 batters in his previous two starts. He wasn't quite as effective against the Cardinals, but he pitched well enough to notch his third straight quality start and victory. All of the runs Fried gave up came in the second inning, when St. Louis tagged him for half of the six overall hits he allowed. The southpaw has been very effective across his 12 starts this season, posting a 2.70 ERA, 1.17 WHIP and 67:15 K:BB over 66.2 frames.

Fried (6-1) allowed three hits and two walks while striking out 10 over seven scoreless innings to earn the win Friday over the Dodgers.

Fried enjoyed his longest outing of the season, which also allowed him to rack up a season high in strikeouts. He's turned in four quality starts over six appearances since returning from a forearm injury in early August. For the season, the southpaw has a 2.52 ERA, 1.15 WHIP and 63:13 K:BB through 60.2 innings over 11 starts this season. Fried is projected for a home start versus the Cardinals next week.

Fried (5-1) picked up the win in Saturday's 7-3 victory over the Giants, giving up two runs on six hits and two walks over six innings. He struck out eight.

A two-run shot off the bat of Wilmer Flores in the second inning accounted for most of the damage off Fried, who has delivered three quality starts in five outings since coming off the IL at the beginning of the month. The southpaw has a 3.58 ERA, 1.34 WHIP and 28:5 K:BB through 27.2 innings in August, numbers below his usual standards, and he faces a potentially tough test in his next start, which is likely to come on the road next week against the NL West-leading Dodgers.

Fried did not factor into the decision Sunday, allowing three runs on nine hits and a walk over 5.2 innings against the Giants. He struck out six.

Fried's final line could've looked a lot worse Sunday -- he held the Giants to three runs on a pair of home runs despite allowing a season-high nine hits. The 29-year-old left-hander's surrendered 17 hits in his last two starts (11.1 innings) though he's allowed just five runs in that span. Overall, Fried is 4-1 with a 2.83 ERA, 1.20 WHIP and 45:9 K:BB across nine starts (47.2 innings) this season. He's currently in line for a rematch with the Giants on the road in his next outing.

Fried (4-1) earned the win Monday, allowing two runs on eight hits and a walk over six innings in an 11-3 victory over the Yankees. He struck out two.

After allowing a run in each of the first and second innings, Fried settled down to hold the Yankees scoreless over his final four frames to grab the win. It was a solid bounce-back from Fried after he surrendered four runs in just four innings in his last outing against Pittsburgh. The left-hander is now 2-0 with a 3.38 ERA in six starts (16 innings) since returning from a two-month IL stint. Overall, his ERA sits at 2.57 with a 1.12 WHIP and 39:8 K:BB across eight starts (42 innings) this season. Fried's currently lined up for a home matchup with the Giants in his next outing.

Fried came away with a no-decision Wednesday in Atlanta's 6-5 win over the Pirates, giving up four runs on six hits and a walk over four innings. He struck out four.

The southpaw cruised through the first three innings before falling apart in the fourth, but Atlanta's offense had already built a 4-0 lead and Fried was never in line for a loss. He exited after 79 pitches (50 strikes), and the team hasn't yet extended him to 80 or more pitches since his return from a forearm issue that cost him three months of action. Atlanta's massive lead in the NL East affords the team the luxury of bringing Fried along slowly, but he could get stretched out a little more in his next start, likely to come at home early next week against the Yankees.

Fried (3-1) earned the win Friday, allowing three hits over six scoreless innings against the Cubs. He struck out eight without issuing a walk.

Making his first start in the majors since May 5, Fried showed no ill effects from the forearm injury. In fact, he appeared close to peak form as he blanked the Cubs over six innings at Wrigley Field. The lefty got 16 called strikes and nine swinging strikes on 72 pitches. Expect him to add to his workload in his next few starts, with the team looking to build Fried up gradually after the long layoff. He lines up for a road start in Pittsburgh next week.

Fried (forearm) was activated from the 60-day injured list Friday ahead of his start against the Cubs.

Fried has been on the shelf since May 9 with a left forearm strain. He built up to 79 pitches in his most recent rehab outing, so Fried should be able to go deep enough to qualify for the win in this one if he is pitching well. The 6-foot-4 lefty gave up five earned runs and struck out 13 over 12 innings across four rehab appearances in July.

Atlanta manager Brian Snitker said that Fried (forearm) is on track to return from the 60-day injured list to start Friday's game against the Cubs at Wrigley Field, Kevin McAlpin of 680 The Fan Atlanta reports.

Atlanta has officially confirmed only Bryce Elder (Saturday) and Charlie Morton (Sunday) as its starters for the three-game set in Chicago, but barring a late setback while working out over the next couple of days, Fried is lined up to take the hill for the series opener. Fried, who has been on the shelf since May 9 with a left forearm strain, most recently made the fourth start of his rehab assignment last Saturday with Triple-A Gwinnett. He covered 4.1 innings and tossed 79 pitches in that outing, so Fried should be capable of giving Atlanta something close to a full workload in his return to the big leagues.

Atlanta general manager Alex Anthopoulos confirmed Sunday that Fried (forearm) has completed his minor-league rehab assignment and will be reinstated from the 60-day injured list later this week, Jim Bowden of The Athletic reports.

Anthopoulos didn't specify what day Fried will be activated, but the southpaw is expected to start either Friday or Saturday versus the Cubs at Wrigley Field, per David O'Brien of The Athletic. In preparation for Fried's return, Atlanta already opened up a spot in the rotation by optioning right-hander AJ Smith-Shawver to Triple-A Gwinnett on Monday. Fried made the fourth and final start of his rehab assignment with Gwinnett this past Saturday, covering 4.1 innings and striking out four while allowing two runs on five hits and two walks. He built up to 79 pitches in that outing, so Fried shouldn't be in line for any major workload restrictions when he returns to the Atlanta rotation.

Fried (forearm/illness) threw 79 pitches and allowed two runs over 4.1 innings during his rehab start with Triple-A Gwinnett on Saturday, David O'Brien of The Athletic reports.

The left-hander has given up five runs on 11 hits across 7.2 frames in his past two minor-league rehab outings, but he's more importantly continued to build up his workload. Saturday's outing was expected to be the final one of Fried's rehab assignment before he rejoins Atlanta's rotation, potentially lining him up to pitch Friday against the Cubs.

Fried (forearm/illness) will make his next rehab start with Triple-A Gwinnett on Saturday, Grant McAuley of 929 The Game reports.

Fried had been slated to start for Gwinnett on Wednesday but had to be scratched due to a stomach bug. Saturday's rehab outing is expected to be his last before rejoining Atlanta's rotation. That would appear to set him up to start Aug. 4 against the Cubs, although the team has not confirmed that date yet.

Atlanta has not yet revealed when Fried (forearm/illness) will make his next rehab start, David O'Brien of The Athletic reports.

It won't be Friday, though, as Michael Soroka will be taking the ball for Triple-A Gwinnett. Fried had been scheduled to make his final rehab start for Gwinnett on Wednesday but was scratched from that outing because he was under the weather. Presumably, the illness will push back the left-hander's return to the Atlanta rotation at least a few days, although a return date for Fried has not yet been identified.

Fried (forearm) has been scratched from a scheduled rehab start with Triple-A Gwinnett on Wednesday due to illness, David O'Brien of The Athletic reports.

The rehab start was supposed to be his last before he rejoined Atlanta's rotation early next week, but this news could throw a wrench into those plans. Provided that Fried doesn't need to be pushed back more than a day or two, he should still be able to return next week. The team plans to announce Thursday or Friday when Fried's next start will be. The lefty has allowed three runs with a 9:2 K:BB over 7.2 frames in his first three rehab outings.

Fried (forearm) will make a fourth rehab start at Triple-A Gwinnett on Wednesday, David O'Brien of The Athletic reports.

Fried made his last rehab start Friday and tossed 65 pitches over 3.1 innings with the Triple-A club. His start in the minors Wednesday could be his final tune-up before he's cleared to rejoin the major-league club. The southpaw made five starts with Atlanta before landing on the injured list in early May, and he posted a 2.08 ERA and 1.08 WHIP in 26 innings.

Atlanta manager Brian Snitker said Saturday that Fried (forearm) will likely make one more rehab start, Justin Toscano of The Atlanta Journal-Constitution reports.

There had been some hope that Fried might be able to return to Atlanta's starting rotation next week in Boston, but he only lasted 3.1 innings (65 pitches) in his latest rehab outing Friday with Triple-A Gwinnett. The 29-year-old southpaw has been on the injured list since early May due to a left forearm strain.

Fried (forearm) allowed three earned runs over 3.1 innings in his third rehab start Friday at Triple-A Gwinnett.

Fried surrendered six hits -- including two homers -- but he tallied five strikeouts without issuing a walk and ran his pitch count up to 65. On the shelf since early May because of a left forearm strain, the 29-year-old could potentially return to Atlanta's starting rotation next week at Boston. He had registered a sharp 2.08 ERA and 25:6 K:BB through 26 innings (five starts) for the NL East leaders prior to this lengthy IL stint.

Fried (forearm) will not make his scheduled rehab outing with Triple-A Gwinnett on Thursday because the was postponed, David O'Brien of The Athletic reports.

Fried was scheduled to work five innings, though the game was postponed due to rain. Gwinnett will play a doubleheader Friday, and it's expected that Fried will start in one of the contests. If everything goes according to plan, he is expected to rejoin the big-league rotation within the next week.

Fried (forearm) is slated to pitch five innings in his next rehab start Thursday with Triple-A Gwinnett, Mark Bowman of MLB.com reports.

If he reaches that goal and all goes smoothly, Fried could return to Atlanta's starting rotation next week in Boston. Sidelined since early May because of a left forearm strain, the 29-year-old southpaw has worked 4.1 scoreless innings with four strikeouts through his first two rehab outings.

Fried (forearm) struck out three over three scoreless frames in a rehab start with High-A Rome on Saturday, David O'Brien of The Athletic reports.

The left-hander yielded two hits on the evening and didn't issue a walk. Fried needed only 30 pitches to get through his three innings, so he threw some more in the bullpen after the game in order to build up a little more. He certainly needs to get stretched out more, but Fried has looked good in two rehab starts in tossing 4.1 scoreless innings.

Fried (forearm) will make his next rehab start with High-A Rome on Saturday, Jeff Schultz of The Athletic reports.

Fried's first rehab start was at Triple-A Gwinnett, but they're on the road this weekend so the lefty will stay closer to home for his second outing. He threw 35 pitches in his first rehab start, so Fried should be able to get up to around 50 on Saturday. The southpaw is tracking toward a return later this month.

Fried (forearm) covered 1.1 scoreless innings and struck out a batter while allowing one hit and two walks in his rehab start Sunday with Triple-A Gwinnett.

After estimating that he threw around 30 pitches Tuesday in a live batting practice session, Fried bumped his workload up a bit in his first rehab start, tossing 35 pitches (18 strikes). According to Justin Toscano of The Atlanta Journal-Constitution, Fried averaged around 94 miles per hour with his four-seam fastball and topped out at 96 mph, with those readings sitting roughly in line with his velocity before he landed on the injured list May 9 with a left forearm strain. Fried will likely need two more rehab starts to build up his pitch count before potentially slotting back into the Atlanta rotation in the final week of July.

Fried (forearm) will begin a rehab assignment with Triple-A Gwinnett on Sunday, Justin Toscano of The Atlanta Journal-Constitution reports.

Fried came out of a live batting practice session Tuesday with clean health and is taking the next step toward a return. He'll likely make a few starts in the minors to ramp up after being sidelined since May 5, lining him up for a potential return in late July.

Fried (forearm) threw live batting practice Tuesday, Justin Toscano of The Atlanta Journal-Constitution reports.

Fried will be reevaluated Wednesday, per manager Brian Snitker, and could be cleared to head out on a minor-league rehab assignment if there are no lingering issues. That would put him on track to return to Atlanta's starting rotation about a week after the All-Star break. He's been sidelined since early May because of a left forearm strain.

Fried (forearm) will throw live batting practice Tuesday, Justin Toscano of The Atlanta Journal-Constitution reports.

Fried faced hitters last Friday for the first time since suffering a left forearm strain and is ready to do so a second time Tuesday. If things go well, he could be cleared to begin a rehab assignment. Fried has been sidelined since early May but should rejoin Atlanta's rotation before the end of July if he continues to progress.

Fried (forearm) threw live batting practice Friday, David O'Brien of The Athletic reports.

It was his first time facing live hitters since he landed on the injured list in early May because of a forearm strain. Fried could soon embark on a minor-league rehab assignment and looks poised to return to Atlanta's starting rotation shortly after the All-Star break.

Fried (forearm) is scheduled to throw another bullpen session Monday, Jeff Schultz of the Atlanta Journal-Constitution reports.

Fried has responded well so far to mound work and could soon advance to facing live hitters. The 29-year-old left-hander is trending toward a mid-July return from the forearm strain that sent him to the injured list May 9. He had registered a sharp 2.08 ERA and 25:6 K:BB in 26 innings (five starts) for Atlanta prior to the IL stint.

Fried (forearm) has been throwing short-distance bullpen sessions, David O'Brien of The Athletic reports.

Fried is working off a mound, but only to a target 40 feet away. It's part of a progression that will eventually advance to full-distance bullpen sessions and then live batting practice and then a minor-league rehab assignment. The 29-year-old left-hander has been on the shelf since early May because of a forearm strain and probably won't return to Atlanta's major-league roster before early-to-mid July.

Atlanta manager Brian Snitker said Tuesday that he's unsure when Fried (forearm) will be cleared for mound work, Mark Bowman of MLB.com reports.

Fried hasn't suffered a setback, but he'll remain limited to flat-ground throwing for a little while longer as he aims to make a setback-free recovery from the left forearm strain that sent him to the 15-day injured list in early May. He was transferred to the 60-day injured list Monday, which served as confirmation that the 29-year-old southpaw will be sidelined through at least the early part of July.

Fried was transferred to the 60-day injured list by Atlanta on Monday.

The move frees up a spot on the 40-man roster for waiver claim Luke Williams. Fried is throwing again as he works his way back from a left forearm strain, but it's going to take a while. He's now not eligible for activation until early July.

Fried (forearm) played catch on flat ground Thursday, Mark Bowman of MLB.com reports.

Fried is basically going to have to build up from scratch after being shut down for more than two weeks with a left forearm strain, but at least that process has begun. The initial expectation was that Fried would miss a couple of months, but he might be ready to return sometime before the end of June if all goes well with this throwing progression. He landed on the injured list May 9, having logged a brilliant 2.08 ERA and 25:6 K:BB through 26 innings (five starts) this season with Atlanta.

Fried (forearm) is close to resuming throwing, David O'Brien of The Athletic reports.

O'Brien adds of Fried that "it seems realistic to expect him back sometime around the All-Star break," although that's certainly a rough timetable for now. The left-hander landed on the injured list two weeks ago with a strained left forearm and recently was cleared to resume lifting weights. He'll need to go through a full throwing progression and undoubtedly will require a rehab assignment before rejoining Atlanta's rotation.

Fried (forearm) has been able to lift weights, but there's been no sign he's close to resuming throwing, Justin Toscano of The Atlanta Journal-Constitution reports.

Fried hit the injured list in early May with a strained left forearm, and while he's yet to be placed on the 60-day injured list, initial reports suggested he'd miss at least two months. It's a positive to see him beginning to work his way back, but manager Brian Snitker didn't know when the lefty was set to be re-evaluated, so it doesn't appear as though he's about to be cleared to throw.

Fried (forearm) is expected to be sidelined for at least two months, Mark Bowman of MLB.com reports.

Fried landed on the injured list Tuesday with a strained left forearm and it would appear Atlanta isn't expecting to get their ace back anytime soon. It's not clear how long the southpaw will be shut down, but he'll have to be built back up after that before going out on a rehab assignment. A two-month timetable would put Fried back just ahead of the All-Star break.

Fried was placed on the 15-day injured list by Atlanta on Tuesday with a strained left forearm.

Atlanta had been cagey about whether Fried would be making his next start and now we know what he's been dealing with. The move is retroactive to May 6, which means Fried will be eligible to return May 21. Whether he'll be ready at that point, though, would seem to be very much up in the air. Jared Shuster has been mentioned as a likely rotation replacement for Fried on Wednesday versus the Red Sox.

Manager Brian Snitker wouldn't commit to Fried starting Wednesday versus Boston or Friday at Toronto, and the skipper also didn't specify if the left-hander is injured, Mark Bowman of MLB.comreports.

Fried surrendered seven runs (five earned) across six-plus innings last Friday against the Orioles, but there was no indication after the contest he might be dealing with the injury. Atlanta has scheduled off days Monday and Thursday this week, so the team could simply be weighing whether or not to give their ace some extra rest. There's no injury to report at the moment, but it's worth keeping an eye on Fried until the team provides some more information on his next outing.

Fried (2-1) allowed seven runs (five earned) on eight hits and two walks over six-plus innings Friday, striking out seven and taking a loss against the Orioles.

Fried coughed up just one run through three innings before being taken deep by Anthony Santander in the fourth. Baltimore then scored seven runs in the seventh frame, with five of them going on Fried's final line despite him not recording an out in the inning. After the ugly outing, the 29-year-old lefty saw his season ERA jump from 0.45 to 2.08 alongside a 25:6 K:BB. He had turned in three straight scoreless starts entering Friday's contest. Fried's next start is currently scheduled for next week at home against Boston.

Fried's next scheduled start will be pushed back from Thursday to Friday at home against the Orioles, Justin Toscano of The Atlanta Journal-Constitution reports.

It sounds like Atlanta just wants to give the left-hander an extra day of rest. The team has not yet decided who will start Thursday in Miami, as they want to see how they get through Wednesday's game first.

Fried (2-0) picked up the win Friday, allowing three hits and a walk over five scoreless innings in a 4-0 victory over the Mets. He struck out seven.

While it wasn't an official complete game, Fried was the only Atlanta pitcher to take the mound in the rain-shortened affair, and he likely would have been good for at least one more innings had the weather cooperated -- he produced 17 swinging strikes among his 86 pitches. Fried extended his scoreless streak to 16.2 innings since returning from the IL, and the southpaw will look to continue his dominance in his next outing, likely to come next week in Miami.

Fried did not factor into the decision Sunday, tossing 6.2 scoreless innings in which he allowed three hits and three walks during a 5-2 loss to the Astros. He struck out five.

Fried was sharp through 6.2 scoreless innings and was pulled with 107 pitches after walking Kyle Tucker, his second walk of the inning. The left-hander was in line for the win, but Houston tied the game at 2-2 in the eighth and went on to win after posting a three-run ninth. Since returning from the 15-day injured list, Fried has struck out nine through 11.2 scoreless innings while allowing just seven hits and three walks.

Fried (1-1) earned the win over the Padres on Monday, allowing four hits and no walks while striking out four batters over five scoreless innings.

In his first start since Opening Day, Fried was held to 79 pitches but showed no signs of rust. The left-hander allowed just four baserunners, all on singles -- two of which didn't leave the infield. He retired the final 10 batters he faced and looked strong throughout, with his only limitation being a managed pitch count due to a multi-week layoff that was necessitated by a hamstring injury. Fried will likely be allowed to go deeper in his next outing, which is tentatively lined up to come at home against Houston.

Atlanta reinstated Fried (hamstring) from the 15-day injured list in advance of his scheduled start Monday in San Diego.

Reliever Lucas Luetge (bicep) was moved to the IL to open up a spot on the 26-man active roster for Fried, who returns after a near-minimum-length stay on the shelf due to a left hamstring strain. He didn't complete a minor-league rehab assignment while he was sidelined with the injury he picked up in Atlanta's March 30 season opener, but he was able to resume throwing less than a week after straining his hamstring and should be able to offer something approximating a normal workload in his return to the rotation Monday.

Manager Brian Snitker announced Fried (hamstring) will come off the injured list to start Monday against the Padres, Kelly Crull of Bally Sports South reports.

The left-hander has been on the shelf since he suffered the hamstring strain during his Opening Day start, and he'll rejoin Atlanta's rotation Monday without making any rehab outings. Given the lack of buildup since suffering the injury, Fried may face some workload limitations in his first couple starts.

Fried (hamstring) took part in fielding drills Tuesday and could return without making a rehab start, David O'Brien of The Athletic reports.

Beginning fielding drills seemed to be one of the final steps for Fried before making a rehab start, but it now seems that Atlanta could get their ace back earlier than expected. The 29-year-old lefty will resume covering first base Wednesday, at which point we could receive a clearer picture regarding his return.

Fried (hamstring) has resumed throwing off a mound without issue but has not yet put full stress on his leg while fielding, David O'Brien of The Athletic reports.

Going full-out during fielding drills would seem to be the last step before he's cleared for a rehab assignment, although it's unclear when that might happen. Fried is probably looking at a late-April return at this point.

Fried (hamstring) hasn't yet resumed mound work and is likely about two weeks away from returning, Mark Bowman of MLB.com reports.

Fried has been playing catch recently but hasn't yet progressed to mound work, and there's been no indication that he's resumed running. It's unclear when he'll be able to throw off a mound, but he'll need some time to build back up before he's in consideration to return to game action.

Fried (hamstring) has been playing catch but is still unable to run, Justin Toscano of The Atlanta Journal-Constitution reports.

After straining his hamstring last week, Fried has been playing catch in order to keep his arm warm, but also has yet to throw off a mound. He still has over a week before he can potentially return from the injured list, but it's still unclear whether or not he'll require an extended absence.

Atlanta placed Fried on the 15-day injured list, retroactive to April 1, on Tuesday with a strained left hamstring.

Fried suffered the injury during his Opening Day start and is now finally officially on the IL. The feeling at this point is that he should be ready to go after missing just two starts. Bryce Elder will take Fried's spot in Atlanta's rotation on Wednesday in St. Louis.

Fried (hamstring) will be placed on the injured list, though Atlanta doesn't need to make the move just yet with the bullpen still fresh, David O'Brien of The Athletic reports.

Fried left his Opening Day start with a strained hamstring. It was clear after the game that he'd miss at least one start, and he'll now be forced to miss at least two. Whether or not a longer absence is required is not yet clear. One of Ian Anderson or Bryce Elder will likely step into the rotation in his absence.

Atlanta manager Brian Snitker said Thursday that Fried (hamstring) will "definitely" miss his next scheduled start, Mark Bowman of MLB.com reports.

It's not official yet, but Fried is almost certainly headed for a 15-day IL stint after suffering a left hamstring strain in Thursday afternoon's season opener against the Nationals. Ian Anderson and Bryce Elder are the primary options to take the ball in his place next Wednesday at St. Louis.

Atlanta manager Brian Snitker confirmed Fried strained his hamstring Thursday against Washington and will likely spend time on the injured list, Justin Toscano of The Atlanta Journal-Constitution reports.

No official decision has been made yet regarding whether or not Fried will head to the IL. If he does, it would be a big blow to Atlanta's rotation early in the season after the 29-year-old lefty finished 2022 with a 2.48 ERA and 1.01 WHIP.

Fried left Thursday's game in the third inning due to a left leg injury, Britt Ghiroli of The Athletic reports.

Fried grabbed his left leg while running to cover first base and appeared to strain his hamstring.

Fried will start for Atlanta on Opening Day on March 30 versus the Nationals.

It's no surprise, of course, following a National League Cy Young runner-up campaign. Fried has been excellent this spring, tossing 11.1 scoreless innings while notching 14 strikeouts.

Fried allowed one hit and two walks over 6.1 scoreless innings while striking out five in Sunday's Grapefruit League game against the Twins.

It was another impressive spring outing for the southpaw, who sports a 14:4 K:BB through 11.1 Grapefruit League innings without giving up a run. Fried remains in line to get the Opening Day assignment for Atlanta, although manager Brian Snitker has yet to make an announcement, and the 29-year-old is coming off a season in which he posted a 2.48 ERA and career-best 1.01 WHIP in a career-high 185.1 innings.

Fried gave up two hits over four scoreless innings while striking out five in Thursday's exhibition game against Team Puerto Rico.

Facing a lineup that featured Francisco Lindor in the leadoff spot and big-league bats throughout the lineup, Fried carved up the opposition without much trouble. Including two Grapefruit League starts, the southpaw has yet to allow a run over nine innings with a composite 14:2 K:BB this spring, and he appears to be just about ready for Opening day.

Fried gave up two hits and struck out four without walking anyone over two scoreless innings in Monday's Grapefruit League game against the Blue Jays.

Facing a Toronto lineup mostly made up of minor leaguers, Fried didn't have much trouble carving it up in his first game action of the spring. The 29-year-old southpaw is coming off an impressive 2022 campaign that included a career-best 4.4 percent walk rate, and he's in the mix to take the mound Opening Day for Atlanta.

Fried lost his arbitration case Saturday and will be paid $13.5 million next season rather than the $15 million he hoped for, Justin Toscano of The Atlanta Journal-Constitution reports.

Fried still has two more seasons to go before he reaches free agency, so Atlanta will get to keep one of the better lefties in the game around at a discounted rate. Fried owns a 2.68 ERA over the past three seasons despite a merely average 23.3 percent strikeout rate. He's relied on a high groundball rate (51.7 percent of that stretch) and a low walk rate (5.7 percent) to minimize damage.

Atlanta manager Brian Snitker confirmed that Fried (illness) will start Game 1 of the team's National League Division Series with the Phillies on Tuesday, Mark Bowman of MLB.com reports.

Fried exited his final start of the regular season Sept. 30 with an illness, but he likely would have been available to start last Wednesday if Atlanta needed him to take the hill for a potential division-clinching game. Atlanta ended up claiming the NL East crown last Tuesday, so the team opted to bypass him in the rotation in order to have him in optimal health for the start of the postseason. Fried shouldn't face any restrictions when he takes the hill Tuesday for his 10th career start in the playoffs.

Fried exited Friday's start against the Mets after five innings with an apparent illness, Kevin McAlpin of 680 The Fan Atlanta reports.

He allowed four hits and one run while striking out three over five innings before exiting. Fried had only thrown 71 pitches, but he was seen vomiting in a trash can in the dugout in between innings, so it seems like he caught a stomach bug. He lines up to pitch in the final game of the regular season Wednesday in Miami if he feels up to it.

Fried (13-7) was tagged with the loss against Philadelphia on Thursday despite allowing only one run on five hits and one walk while striking out eight batters over five innings.

Fried allowed only six baserunners across his five frames, but Phillies batters consistently worked deep into counts and collectively fouled off 20 balls, forcing the left-hander to rack up 107 pitches. As such, Fried was unable to hang around long enough to log his third straight quality start, though he did tally eight strikeouts -- his most since late July. The veteran hurler has surrendered only five runs over 22 innings in four September starts, lowering his season ERA to a tidy 2.50.

Fried did not factor into the decision against the Phillies on Friday, allowing two runs on four hits while striking out four and walking three over six innings.

Like his counterpart in the game Ranger Suarez, Fried pitched well enough to earn the win, but came away without factoring into the decision. He tossed 66 of 110 pitches for strikes across six frames. Fried was a victim of the long ball Friday, giving up solo shots to Kyle Schwarber and Jean Segura. This was Fried's second quality start in a row and his fourth in his last six games. The lefty has pitched to a 2.12 ERA this month and his season ERA now sits at 2.52, which is the ninth best among qualified starters.

Fried (13-6) took the loss against Seattle on Saturday, allowing two runs on five hits and no walks while striking out six batters over six innings.

Fried was excellent in the outing, inducing 14 swinging strikes and finishing with his 20th quality start of the campaign. However, the Mariners got to him for a pair of solo homers -- one by Sam Haggerty and another by Eugenio Suarez -- and that was enough to send the lefty to a loss on a night when Atlanta managed only a single run of its own. Fried hasn't given up more than two earned runs in an outing since July 25, and he's posted a 1.84 ERA and 38:6 K:BB across 44 innings over his past seven starts.

Fried (13-5) earned the victory Sunday against Miami, striking out six and walking one in five scoreless innings.

Fried faced the minimum in his five innings, erasing a fifth-inning walk with an inning-ending double play. A one-hour and 51-minute rain delay following the top of the fifth ended his outing with just 66 pitches thrown. The lefty has thrown at least five innings and allowed three earned runs or fewer in 13 straight starts and has a 2.07 ERA, 0.98 WHIP and 74:15 K:BB with only two homers allowed in 82.2 innings in that span. His next start will likely be next weekend in Seattle.

Fried (12-5) took the loss Tuesday, allowing three runs on seven hits and one walk over five innings against the Rockies. He struck out three.

Atlanta got off to an early lead for Fried, but Colorado got to him for two runs on a few hits to tie the game in the fourth and then Fried cost himself a run with an error in the fifth. The loss is the fifth for Fried on the season and just his second since the All-Star break. He will carry a 2.56 ERA into his next start.

Fried (12-4) picked up the win Tuesday, allowing one run on three hits and a walk over eight innings in a 6-1 victory over the Pirates. He struck out seven.

The Atlanta offense didn't get rolling until the fifth inning, but Fried made sure the game was close until then, and a Michael Chavis solo shot in the second was the only real blemish on his line. The southpaw extended his quality start streak to six with the performance and since the beginning of July, Fried has a dazzling 2.14 ERA, 0.98 WHIP and 48:10 K:BB over 59 innings.

Fried (11-4) earned the win over the Mets on Thursday, allowing two runs on four hits and no walks while striking out six batters over seven innings.

Fried was reinstated from the 7-day injured list earlier in the day and was given the difficult task of matching up with Mets ace Jacob deGrom. Fried got the better of his counterpart, logging his fifth straight quality start to earn his 11th victory of the campaign. The left-hander did see an end to his streak of 10 straight outings without allowing a long ball, but Mark Canha's two-run homer in the fifth inning was the only damage the Mets could manage on the scoreboard. The victory was Fried's first in four starts since the All-Star break.

Atlanta reinstated Fried (concussion) from the 7-day injured list ahead of his scheduled start Thursday against the Mets.

Right-hander Freddy Tarnok was optioned to Triple-A Gwinnett to open up room on the active roster for Fried, who will make his first start since Aug. 6 after clearing MLB's concussion protocol. The southpaw will be facing the Mets for the fourth time this season after turning in a 3.18 ERA and 16:6 K:BB across 17 innings in the previous three matchups.

Manager Brian Snitker announced Fried (concussion) will be activated off the 7-day injured list to start Thursday against the Mets, David O'Brien of The Athletic reports.

The left-hander landed on the shelf due to the concussion last week, and he'll rejoin the rotation after being sidelined for little more than the minimum of seven days. Fried has a 2.37 ERA, 1.16 WHIP and 18:3 K:BB across 19 frames in three starts since the All-Star break, though he didn't pick up a win in any of those contests.

Fried (concussion) is expected to return from the 7-day injured list late this week, Mark Bowman of MLB.com reports.

Atlanta hasn't yet announced its starting pitchers beyond Wednesday, but Fried and Kyle Wright (arm) are in the mix to rejoin the rotation. Over three starts since the All-Star break, Fried has posted a 2.37 ERA and 1.16 WHIP in 19 innings.

Fried was placed on the 7-day concussion injured list Thursday, retroactive to Aug. 8.

Fried was scheduled to start Friday's series opener against Miami, but he banged his head against the ground while attempting to make a throw to the plate Saturday and will ultimately be forced to miss time. He'll be eligible to return as early as Monday, but it's not yet clear how much time he's expected to miss. Jake Odorizzi will take his place as Friday's starter.

Fried (10-4) allowed four runs (two earned) on six hits and a walk while striking out five in six innings, taking the loss in Game 2 of Saturday's doubleheader versus the Mets.

Fried gave up three runs in the third inning and another in the sixth. Two of Atlanta's three errors in this contest led to runs, allowing Fried to log his fourth straight quality start. The southpaw has maintained a 2.60 ERA, 1.08 WHIP and 127:25 K:BB in 138.1 innings across 22 outings this year. He'll look to avoid going a season-worst four starts without a win in his next turn, tentatively projected to be a road start in Miami next weekend.

Fried struck out five in seven scoreless innings, allowing four hits and two walks in a 1-0 win Sunday against Arizona. He did not factor into the decision.

Fried did not allow a hit until Jake McCarthy singled with one out in the fifth inning. He was never really in trouble as only one baserunner made it into scoring position. The lefty has given up more than three runs in a start only twice all season and has a stunning 2.58 ERA, 1.07 WHIP and 122:24 K:BB in 132.1 innings while allowing just six homers. His next start will likely be next weekend in New York against the Mets.

Fried didn't factor into the decision in Monday's 6-4 loss to the Phillies, giving up three runs on nine hits over six innings. He struck out eight without walking a batter.

The southpaw tossed 69 of 103 pitches for strikes en route to his sixth quality start in his last seven outings and his 15th of the season, but Fried got denied his 11th win when A.J. Minter served up a game-winning homer to Bryson Stott in the bottom of the eighth inning. Fried will take a 2.73 ERA, 1.09 WHIP and 117:22 K:BB through 125.1 innings into his next start.

Fried (10-3) earned the win during Saturday's 6-3 victory over Washington, allowing three runs on seven hits with four strikeouts in seven innings.

Atlanta provided Fried an early four-run lead and the lefty rolled to an easy win, firing 60 of 94 pitches for strikes in the process. The 28-year-old encountered one rough inning in the fourth when he surrendered two runs on two hits but managed to permit only one run in his other six frames. Though he still delivered a quality start, the three runs surrendered snapped a five-game streak of allowing two runs or fewer. Fried concludes the first half with a 2.64 ERA and 1.06 WHIP with 109 strikeouts in 119.1 innings across 19 starts.

Fried (9-3) took the loss Monday as Atlanta fell 4-1 to the Mets, giving up two runs on five hits and five walks over five innings. He struck out five.

The southpaw didn't have much margin for error with Max Scherzer in top form for New York, but Fried didn't help his cause by tossing only 55 of 99 pitches for strikes before exiting. It's only the second time in his last eight starts Fried has issued multiple free passes, and even with Monday's bumpy outing, he sports a 1.93 ERA, 1.03 WHIP and 48:11 K:BB through 51.1 innings over that stretch.

Fried (upper leg) is listed as Atlanta's probable starter for Monday's game versus the Mets, Anthony DiComo of MLB.com reports.

The left-hander exited after six scoreless innings due to tightness in his right glut during his previous start Wednesday, but it appears he's had no further issues and is set to make his next turn through the rotation. Fried has been electric in his past four outings with a 1.35 ERA, 0.94 WHIP and 25:4 K:BB across 26.2 innings.

Fried (upper leg) (9-2) earned the win against the Cardinals on Wednesday, allowing no runs on five hits while striking out four and walking one across six innings.

Fried pitched well Wednesday, throwing 56 of 82 pitches for strikes. The outing gave Fried his 13th quality start of the year out of 17 games. The lefty's performance against St. Louis was his third shutout of the season. He has allowed 30 earned runs across 107.1 frames. Fried has also done an excellent job limiting walks. His lone walk in Wednesday's outing gives him 17 for the year compared to 100 strikeouts. Fried will look to continue his dominant season as he takes a 2.52 ERA into his next appearance.

Fried (9-2), who picked up the win Wednesday against the Cardinals, was removed as a precautionary measure due to tightness in his right glute, David O'Brien of The Athletic reports. The left-hander allowed five hits with four strikeouts and one walk over six scoreless innings.

The 28-year-old exited with only 82 pitches, so he likely would have lasted another inning or two without the injury. It's not believed to be a serious issue, and manager Brian Snitker expects Fried to make his next turn through the rotation, which tentatively lines up for Monday versus the Mets.

Fried (8-2) picked up the win Friday, allowing one run on five hits over seven innings in a 9-1 victory over the Reds. He struck out four without walking a batter.

Atlanta jumped out to a 2-0 lead in the top of the first inning, and that was all the support Fried would need. The southpaw fired 63 of 94 pitches for strikes en route to his third straight quality start and 12th in his last 14 trips to the mound, and Fried will take a sharp 2.66 ERA, 1.03 WHIP and 96:16 K:BB through 101.1 innings into his next outing.

Fried pitched 6.2 innings against the Dodgers on Saturday, allowing two runs on six hits and one walk while striking out nine. He did not factor in the decision.

Fried held the Dodgers scoreless heading into the seventh inning, but a two-out single by Cody Bellinger in that frame resulted in Los Angeles' first run. Will Smith relieved Fried and allowed an inherited runner to score, and the Dodgers tied the contest in the following inning, taking both starters out of the decision. Though he wasn't able to notch a win, Fried put forth another strong effort, setting a season high with nine strikeouts while racking up 20 swings-and-misses. He posted his 11th quality start of the campaign, which trails only Joe Musgrove for most in the National League.

Fried will make $6.85 million in 2022 after winning his arbitration case against Atlanta, Jeff Passan of ESPN.com reports.

While Fried and Atlanta were unable to reach an agreement prior to a hearing, the southpaw will make $250,000 more than the $6.6 million that the team offered. The 28-year-old has posted a 1.93 ERA and 1.04 WHIP in 32.2 innings over his last five starts and projects to make his next start on the road against the Dodgers on Saturday.

Fried did not factor in the decision against San Francisco on Monday despite allowing only one run on five hits and two walks while striking out eight over seven innings.

Fried was nearly untouchable in the outing, holding the Giants scoreless through seven innings. However, he allowed three straight batters to reach base in the eighth and was tagged with one earned run in the frame. Fried has yielded one or zero runs in four of his past five contests and has gone 3-0 over that stretch. He's 7-2 on the campaign with a 2.77 ERA, 1.05 WHIIP and 83:15 K:BB across 87.2 innings overall.

Fried (7-2) earned the victory Tuesday in Washington, striking out six in 5.2 innings while allowing four runs on six hits and a walk.

Fried got off to a great starting, fanning the first five batters he faced. In the third, he loaded the bases with no outs, leading to a three-run inning. The lefty fell short of completing six innings for just the third time this season. His next start will likely be early next week against San Francisco.

Fried (6-2) earned the win Thursday, allowing one run on eight hits and zero walks over six innings against Pittsburgh. He struck out eight.

Fried allowed singles to three of the first four Pirates hitters, but he escaped the inning without giving up a run by striking out the side. The left-hander's only blemish on the night came on a Jack Suwinski solo home run in the fourth, but Fried got his revenge in the sixth by striking Suwinski out to end his night. Thursday's performance marked Fried's third consecutive outing giving up one or fewer runs and his eight strikeouts tied his season high. His next start is tentatively scheduled for Tuesday's contest in Washington.

Fried didn't factor into the decision during Friday's 3-1 victory over Colorado, allowing two hit and one walk with four strikeouts in eight shutout innings.

Fried shut down the Rockies at Coors but Atlanta wasn't able to score until the 10th leaving Fried with a no-decision despite posting a season-high game score of 81. The 28-year-old lefty has now gone at least six innings in each of his last 10 starts, tallying a 2.17 ERA during that span. Fried will carry a 2.74 ERA and 1.01 WHIP into his next start over the weekend against Pittsburgh.

Fried (5-2) allowed one run on six hits and three walks over six innings Sunday, striking out five and earning a victory over Miami.

Despite finding himself in a few dangerous spots, the only damage against Fried was Jorge Soler's solo shot in the first inning. It was his first win since May 7 after failing to record a decision in any of his last three outings. The 28-year-old has finished at least six innings in eight straight starts, posting a 2.52 ERA during that span. Fried is projected to start in Colorado next week.

Fried didn't factor into the decision in Tuesday's 6-5 win over the Phillies, allowing two runs on five hits and two walks over six innings. He struck out five.

The lefty tossed 58 of 99 pitches for strikes before exiting with a 4-2 lead, but Fried was denied his fifth win of the year when Kenley Jansen blew the save in the top of the ninth. The quality start was Fried's second in a row and sixth in nine trips to the mound, and he'll carry a 3.27 ERA, 1.05 WHIP and 52:8 K:BB through 55 innings into his next outing.

Fried didn't factor into the decision in Wednesday's 7-6 extra-innings loss to the Brewers, giving up three runs on seven hits and two walks over six innings. He struck out six.

The southpaw got staked to a 4-0 lead in the third inning and exited with his team still ahead, but the Atlanta bullpen blew leads in the ninth, 10th and finally the 11th inning. Fried still delivered his fifth straight quality start, and he'll take a 3.31 ERA and 47:6 K:BB through 49 innings into his next outing.

Fried didn't factor into the decision in Friday's 11-6 loss to the Padres, giving up four runs on nine hits and two walks over six innings. He struck out six.

The southpaw was still the pitcher of record when Atlanta took a 6-4 lead in the bottom of the sixth inning, lining him up for his fifth straight win, but Will Smith served up a three-run blast to Ha-Seong Kim in the top of the seventh to flip the script. Fried has had a strong start to the year, posting a 3.14 ERA, 0.98 WHIP and 41:4 K:BB through 43 innings.

Fried (4-2) earned the win over Milwaukee on Saturday, hurling seven innings during which he gave up one run on four hits and one walk while striking out eight.

Fried kept the Brewers off the scoreboard for six frames before Hunter Renfroe got to him for a solo shot in the seventh. That was the only blemish of the southpaw's outing, and the ace tied a season high with eight punchouts while racking up 15 swinging strikes. Fried started the season by giving up five runs in his first start, but he has been on a tear since then, registering a 1.72 ERA across his subsequent five outings covering 31.1 innings. He has finished with a quality start in four straight appearances.

Fried (3-2) picked up the win in Monday's 5-2 victory over the Mets, giving up two runs on four hits over six innings. He struck out six without walking a batter.

The lefty continues to have pinpoint control. Fried boasts a minuscule 0.9 percent walk rate through five starts and 30 innings, leading to a 3.00 ERA, 0.87 WHIP and 27:1 K:BB, and the efficiency has allowed him to deliver three straight quality starts and three straight wins. While he'll eventually start issuing more free passes, that may not result in much regression in his performance -- his 94.5 mph fastball average is the highest of his career, while his 67.5 percent strand rate has been somewhat unlucky.

Fried (2-2) picked up the win in Tuesday's 3-1 victory over the Cubs, allowing one run on four hits over six innings. He struck out four without walking a batter.

It wasn't a dominant performance by the southpaw but it was an effective one, as Fried tossed 61 of 89 pitches for strikes in his second straight quality start. After a rough first start of the year, the year the 28-year-old has already righted the ship, and through four outings and 24 innings, Fried sports a 3.00 ERA, 0.92 WHIP and 21:1 K:BB.

Fried (1-2) go the win during Tuesday's 3-1 victory over the Dodgers, allowing two hits in seven scoreless innings.

Fried was masterful Tuesday, keeping a potent Dodger's lineup at bay all game and not permitting a baserunner until the sixth inning after Atlanta already had a three-run lead. The 28-year-old has now improved in each of his three starts and appears back on track with nearly as many strikeouts Tuesday as he had in his first two starts against lesser opponents. Fried is tentatively slated to face the Cubs on Tuesday for his next turn.

Fried (leg) said after Wednesday's 3-1 loss to the Nationals that he feels "fine" after exiting his start shortly after being struck by a comebacker in the sixth inning, Mark Bowman of MLB.com reports. He intends to make his next start, which tentatively lines up for Tuesday in Los Angeles against the Dodgers.

Fried said Nelson Cruz's line drive to the mound to begin the sixth inning struck him in his right hamstring, but other than experiencing some minor soreness or bruising, the southpaw didn't appear to be in any pain. After Cruz's groundout, Fried allowed back-to-back singles before being pulled from the contest after 78 pitches, six shy of his total from his Opening Day start last week. Fried finished the afternoon with three runs allowed (two earned) across 5.1 innings and was charged with his second loss of the season.

Fried was removed midway through the sixth inning of his start Wednesday against the Nationals, shortly after being struck by a Nelson Cruz comebacker to the mound, Mark Bowman of MLB.com reports. He covered 5.1 frames in the outing and gave up three runs (two earned) on seven hits and no walks while striking out four.

Fried departed with Atlanta trailing 3-0, so he'll be on the hook for a loss or no-decision. Fortunately, he doesn't appear to be dealing with any sort of a major injury. He was able to face two batters after Cruz's groundout, and he didn't exhibit any sort of limp while walking off the field. Fantasy managers will still want to ensure Fried is feeling fine coming out of his next bullpen session, but he looks on track to make his third start of the season Monday or Tuesday in Los Angeles against the Dodgers.

Fried (0-1) took the loss against Cincinnati on Thursday, tossing 5.2 innings and allowing five runs on eight hits and one walk while striking out five.

Fried was primarily stung by a troublesome third frame during which he gave up two runs on a trio of singles and a walk. Two of the other runs he was charged with came after he departed the contest in the sixth inning. Though his final line wasn't pretty, the southpaw didn't give up any extra-base hits and was largely a victim of soft contact. Fried promisingly threw 84 pitches in the outing, so he could go even deeper into his next start, which is tentatively scheduled to come at home against Washington next week.

Atlanta announced Wednesday that Fried will start its April 7 season opener versus the Reds.

The decision for the Opening Day nod came down to Fried and Charlie Morton, with manager Brian Snitker ultimately favoring the former while the latter gears up for a return from the fractured leg he suffered in the World Series. After ranking among MLB's ERA leaders with a 2.25 mark during the pandemic-shortened 2020 campaign, Fried took only a marginal step back in 2021 (3.04) over a much larger sample of 165.2 innings. The lefty also delivered a 1.09 WHIP for the second year in a row, struck out nearly a batter per inning (8.6 K/9) and rolled to 14 wins. With an excellent offense backing him as he heads into his age-28 season, Fried should remain a strong four-category contributor in 2022. He looks like a solid No. 2 or 3 starter for the majority of fantasy squads.

Fried struck out one batter over three scoreless innings without allowing a hit or a walk in Tuesday's Grapefruit League game against the Twins.

He plunked Byron Buxton with a pitch, but otherwise it was a spotless performance from Fried in his first trip to the mound this spring. The 28-year-old southpaw has emerged as a frontline starter over the last two seasons, posting a combined 2.84 ERA and 1.09 WHIP over 39 starts and 221.2 innings, and he'll look to build on that success in 2022.

Fried (1-1) allowed four hits and no walks while striking out six in six scoreless innings to earn the win over the Astros in Game 6 of the World Series on Tuesday.

Fried had given up at least five runs in each of his last two appearances, but he bounced back Tuesday to help Atlanta clinch its first World Series title since 1995. The southpaw made five starts during the 2021 postseason and posted a 4.23 ERA and 1.19 WHIP in 27.2 innings.

Fried (0-1) allowed five earned runs on eight hits and two walks while striking out three across 4.2 innings to take the loss in Game 5 of the NLCS against the Dodgers on Thursday.

Fried was handed a 2-0 lead prior to taking the mound, but he allowed two home runs in the second inning to quickly surrender the support. He had pitched well in his two prior starts this postseason, combining to allow only two earned runs across 12 innings entering Thursday's outing. Fried almost certainly won't be available for the rest of the NLCS, so he'll hope to have the chance to bounce back with starts in the World Series.

Fried allowed two runs on eight hits in six innings of work in Saturday's ALCS Game 1 win over the Dodgers. He did not factor into the decision.

Fried left with the game tied, 2-2, a score which held up until Austin Riley's walkoff single in the bottom of the ninth. While he didn't pick up the win, he did his job keeping his team in the game despite not throwing a single clean inning. He was able to limit the damage despite a steady stream of hits, allowing one run on a two-out single by Chris Taylor in the second inning and another on a solo homer by Will Smith to lead off the fourth. He's now lined up to pitch Game 5 next Thursday.

Fried will start Game 1 of the NLCS against the Dodgers on Saturday, David O'Brien of The Athletic reports.

Fried was excellent down the stretch, recording a 1.46 ERA in 11 starts since the beginning of August. His 23.4 percent strikeout rate over that stretch wasn't anything special, but his elite 3.3 percent walk rate and 58.3 percent groundball rate represent a sustainable path to success. He was excellent in his start in Game 2 of the NLDS against the Brewers, striking out nine while allowing just three hits across six scoreless innings.

Fried (1-0) tossed six scoreless innings, allowing three hits while striking out nine in a win over the Brewers in Game 2 of the NLDS on Saturday.

The left-hander was very effective in this one, scattering two singles and a double over six scoreless innings. The nine strikeouts were his highest total since Sept. 1 and he has registered a quality start in seven consecutive outings. He's gotten hot at the right time, posting a 1.34 ERA and 0.70 WHIP since the beginning of September.

Fried (14-7) went seven innings and picked up the win Wednesday against the Phillies, allowing two runs (one earned) on four hits while striking out six.

Fried captured his third consecutive win after limiting the Phillies to a Ronald Torreyes RBI single in the second inning, a play that resulted in an additional unearned run after Ozzie Albies' throwing error. They're the only two runs Fried has given up over 23 innings during his three-game winning streak, and the 27-year-old hasn't lost a decision since July 28. He finished the regular season with a 3.04 ERA in 28 starts, posting a 158:41 K:BB over 165.2 innings.

Fried (13-7) got the win in Friday's 4-0 victory over San Diego, surrendering just three hits with four strikeouts in nine scoreless innings.

With Atlanta fending off the red-hot Phillies for the NL east crown, Fried delivered a signature start at the best time with his second straight scoreless appearance. The 27-year-old retired the final 18 Padres and registered his second shutout in his last seven starts. The lefty now owns a 1.59 ERA through five September outings and has won his past five decisions.

Fried (12-7) fired seven scoreless innings, allowing three hits and one walk while striking out five to earn the win over the Giants on Sunday.

Fried continued his streak of 10 straight quality starts. He's allowed just 13 earned runs in that stretch. In addition, he hasn't lost since July 28. The 27-year-old has a 3.31 ERA and 1.16 WHIP with 148 strikeouts in 149.2 innings this season. His next start is scheduled for Friday in San Diego.

Fried allowed three runs on four hits and a walk over six innings in Sunday's win over Miami. He struck out seven and did not factor in the decision.

Through five innings, Fried had allowed just one run on a solo blast by Jesus Sanchez in the second inning. He then coughed up a pair of RBI singles in the sixth. Over his last eight outings, the 27-year-old southpaw owns a 1.94 ERA with a 49:8 K:BB over 51 innings. Fried will carry a 3.47 ERA into his projected outing in San Francisco next weekend.

Fried allowed one run on six hits and four walks with five strikeouts in six innings versus Washington on Tuesday. He did not factor in the decision.

The southpaw was in line for the win despite matching his season high in walks, but reliever Tyler Matzek allowed Washington to tie the game in the seventh inning. Fried has now taken three straight no-decisions, although all have been quality starts. He's at a 3.42 ERA, 1.20 WHIP and 136:39 K:BB across 136.2 innings overall. Fried remains at 11-7 heading into this weekend's projected home start versus Miami.

Fried didn't factor into the decision Wednesday against the Dodgers after allowing two runs on three hits and a walk across six innings, fanning nine.

Fried tied a season-high mark in strikeouts and recorded his seventh straight quality start, and while it wasn't enough to tame the Dodgers, it allowed him to continue his stellar run of form. He owns a blistering 1.62 ERA with a 0.79 WHIP and an excellent 37:3 K:BB through 39 innings (six outings) since the beginning of August.

Fried allowed four runs (three earned) on five hits while striking out five over six innings versus San Francisco on Friday. He walked none and he did not factor in the decision.

The southpaw pitched a complete-game shutout versus baseball's worst team in his last start, but he understandably had a tougher time against the league-leading Giants. Fried allowed just seven runs (five earned) across 33 innings in August, winning four of his five starts with Friday being the lone exception. He has a 3.54 ERA, 1.20 WHIP and 122:34 K:BB across 124.2 innings overall. Fried is projected to make his next start on the road versus the Dodgers next week.

Fried (11-7) allowed four hits and no walks while striking out four in nine shutout innings to earn the win over the Orioles on Friday.

Fried didn't allow more than one baserunner in any inning Friday, and he only needed 90 pitches to get through his first career complete-game shutout. The southpaw has earned wins in each of his four starts in August, and he's recorded a 0.67 ERA and 0.81 WHIP in 27 innings during that time. He'll face a tough test in his next outing, as he tentatively lines up to take the mound at home against the Giants on Friday.

Fried (10-7) earned the win Saturday against the Nationals after allowing two runs (one earned) on five hits while fanning seven across six innings.

Fried recorded his fourth straight quality start and has given up two or fewer earned runs in each of those contests, as the left-hander continues to thrive every time he steps on the mound. While Fried has been consistently good all season long, he seems to have reached another level over the last few weeks -- he owns a 3.26 ERA and a 1.26 WHIP while posting a 9.8 K/9 over eight starts since the beginning of July.

Fried (9-7) allowed a run on seven hits and a walk while striking out five in six innings to earn the win Sunday over Washington.

The 27-year-old was excellent in his third straight quality start, and he picked up his second win in that span. The only run Fried gave up came on an Alcides Escobar single in the third inning. Through 103.2 innings, the southpaw has a 3.91 ERA, 1.31 WHIP and 106:34 K:BB, although he's yielded just 10 runs in his last 36 innings. He lines up for his next start as a road rematch with Washington next weekend.

Fried (9-7) allowed a run on seven hits and a walk while striking out five in six innings to earn the win Sunday over Washington.

The 27-year-old was excellent in his third straight quality start, and he picked up his second win in that span. The only run Fried gave up came on an Alcides Escobar single in the third inning. Through 103.2 innings, the southpaw has a 3.91 ERA, 1.31 WHIP and 106:34 K:BB, though he's yielded just 10 runs in his last 36 innings. He lines up for his next start as a road rematch with Washington next weekend.

Fried (8-7) earned the win over St. Louis on Tuesday, pitching six scoreless innings and allowing four hits and one walk while striking out seven.

The southpaw didn't surrender any extra-base hits and allowed only one runner to reach second base. He kept his opponent off the scoreboard for just the second time this season and snapped a personal two-game losing streak. Fried has tossed at least five innings in each of his past 10 appearances dating back to June 6. His ERA still sits at an uninspiring 4.05, but he has mostly pitched well since starting the campaign by giving up 14 earned runs over his first 11 innings. Fried is expected to make his next start on the road against Washington this weekend.

Fried (7-7) took the loss Wednesday, giving up two runs on five hits and two walks over seven innings as Atlanta fell 2-1 to the Mets. He struck out nine.

The southpaw set a new season high in whiffs while tossing 67 of 106 pitches for strikes, but Fried still came out on the wrong end of the decision. He's delivered a quality start in two of his last three outings and eight times overall this year, leading to a 4.32 ERA and 94:32 K:BB through 91.2 innings.

Fried (7-6) was tagged with the loss Friday against the Phillies after allowing four runs on six hits and four walks while fanning six across five innings.

Fried was coming off a seven-inning gem in his previous start against Tampa Bay, but he couldn't carry that momentum into this outing and he's now given up at least three runs in three of his last four appearances. The fact that he has failed to pitch more than five innings in three of those outings doesn't bode well for his upside, either, and he has been trending in the wrong direction of late after beginning the season on a strong note. He posted a 2.51 ERA over an eight-start stretch between May 5 and June 18, but he owns a 5.00 ERA over his last five appearances.

Fried improved to 7-5 after tossing seven shutout innings Saturday in Atlanta's 9-0 win over Tamp Bay. He scattered four hits and a walk and struck out seven in the 96-pitch outing.

Fried did it all in his first start of the second half, silencing the Tampa Bay bats over seven innings while helping his own cause by going 3-for-3 with a double, two runs and two RBI. The southpaw has already endured two stints on the injured list this season, but he's now one of the few healthy members of an Atlanta rotation that has been gutted by injuries in recent weeks. In addition to Fried, Drew Smyly and Charlie Morton are the only members of the Opening Day rotation that are currently active.

Fried (5-5) took the loss in Monday's 11-1 rout at the hands of the Pirates, coughing up six runs on seven hits and two walks over five-plus innings. He struck out five.

The southpaw was keeping things close until he hit the wall in the sixth inning and served up four straight hits before getting the hook, with all four runners eventually coming around to score. Fried had a 2.63 ERA and 0.92 WHIP over his prior four starts coming into Monday, but he's still prone to occasional blowups -- in 13 trips to the mound this year, he's been tagged for five or more runs four times. Fried lines up to get one more start before the All-Star break this weekend in Miami.

Fried (5-4) earned the win Wednesday against the Mets after allowing two runs on three hits and two walks while fanning seven across five innings.

Fried ended a streak of three straight quality starts with this performance but still looked solid, and he ended just one strikeout away from tying his season-best mark. The southpaw posted a 3.58 ERA across five starts in June and is expected to pitch again next week on the road against the Pirates.

Fried (finger) was reinstated from the 10-day injured list Wednesday.

Fried had been sidelined since June 19 due to a blister on his left index finger, but he's now fully healed and will start Wednesday's game against the Mets. The southpaw had alternated wins and losses in his six starts prior to his absence, and he posted a 2.78 ERA and 1.09 WHIP in 35.2 innings during that time. Left-hander Sean Newcomb was optioned to Triple-A Gwinnett in a corresponding move.

Fried (finger) has fully recovered from the blister that landed him on the 10-day injured list, David O'Brien of The Athletic reports.

The lefty's index finger has no sign of the blister as he prepares to be activated and start Wednesday's game against the Mets. Early-season struggles are largely responsible for Fried's 4.21 ERA, as he's recorded a quality start in six of his last seven outings and, apart from the higher ERA, boasts very similar numbers to his superb 2020 campaign through 11 starts.

Fried (finger) is in line to return from the 10-day injured list to start Wednesday's game against the Mets, David O'Brien of The Athletic reports.

Assuming he makes it through a pre-start bullpen session without incident, Fried will come off the IL one day after the minimum, as Atlanta gave Charlie Morton some extra rest by skipping his turn in the rotation this weekend and having him start Tuesday's series opener instead. Fried was placed on the IL after developing a blister on his left index finger coming out of his most recent start June 18 versus St. Louis.

Fried (finger) should return from the 10-day injured list Thursday, Mark Bowman of MLB.com reports.

Fried has been on the 10-day injured list since June 19 due to a blister on his left index finger, but he could return to the mound when he's first eligible Wednesday. The southpaw put up quality starts in each of his three outings prior to his absence, and he posted. 2.37 ERA and 0.89 WHIP in 19 innings during that time.

Fried was placed on the 10-day injured list Tuesday because of a blister on his left index finger. The move is retroactive to June 19.

If the left-hander was bothered by the blister in Friday's start against St. Louis, he didn't show it, tossing seven innings of one-run ball while picking up his fourth win. With the move being retroactive to last Saturday, Fried will become eligible to be reinstated June 29 against the Mets, though it's not clear at this point if he'll require additional time on the shelf. Kyle Wright was recalled from Triple-A and is a strong candidate to fill Fried's void in the starting rotation beginning Wednesday against the Mets.

Fried (4-4) picked up the win in Friday's 9-1 romp over the Cardinals, allowing one run on two hits and two walks over seven innings. He struck out six.

St. Louis grabbed a 1-0 lead in the top of the first inning against the southpaw, but Fried shut the Cards down after that as the Atlanta offense got rolling. He threw 68 of 98 pitches for strikes en route to his third straight quality start and sixth in his last seven trips to the mound, and Fried boasts a 2.59 ERA, 1.06 WHIP and 35:14 K:BB through 41.2 innings over that stretch.

Fried (3-4) took the loss Saturday as Atlanta fell 4-2 to the Marlins, allowing three runs on five hits and two walks over six innings. He struck out four.

The southpaw came through with his second straight quality start and fifth in his last six outings, but Fried is only 2-3 over that stretch thanks to a general lack of run support. On the season, the 27-year-old has a 4.62 ERA -- a figure that stood at 8.44 before his recent stretch of strong outings -- and 49:18 K:BB through 50.2 innings.

Fried (3-3) allowed a run on six hits and struck out four in six innings to earn the win Sunday versus the Dodgers.

Albert Pujols' RBI single in the fourth inning was the only damage on Fried's line. After a speed bump in Tuesday's messy loss to Washington, Fried appears back on track. He's allowed just one run in five of his last six starts. The southpaw's ratios remain messy after a poor start to the year, as he carries a 4.63 ERA, 1.48 WHIP and 45:16 K:BB across 44.2 innings overall. His next start is expected to be in Miami next weekend.

Fried (2-3) took the loss Tuesday as Atlanta fell 11-6 to the Nationals, coughing up five runs on six hits and two walks over 3.2 innings. He struck out seven.

The southpaw hadn't pitched since May 23 due to a couple games being postponed over the weekend, and Fried looked out of sync as he needed 92 pitches (64 strikes) to record only 11 outs. The outing snapped a string of three straight quality starts for Fried, but it's also the third time this season he's been tagged for five earned runs or more, leaving him with a 5.35 ERA and 1.55 WHIP despite a solid 41:16 K:BB through 38.2 innings.

Fried won't start as scheduled Sunday against the Mets since the game was postponed due to inclement weather, Mets owner Steven Cohen reports.

It's the second postponement of the series as Friday's contest was also called off. The 27-year-old initially lined up to start Saturday, but was pushed to Sunday while Friday's scheduled starter Ian Anderson pitched Saturday. According to David O'Brien of The Athletic, Fried is now expected to take the mound Tuesday versus the Nationals, with Charlie Morton remaining on schedule to start Monday.

Fried is scheduled to start Sunday's game against the Mets rather than Saturday as previously scheduled, David O'Brien of The Athletic reports.

Atlanta will push back the starting rotation as a result of Friday's postponement, so Ian Anderson is now on tap to start Saturday's contest. Fried has a 1.50 ERA, 1.00 WHIP and 20:9 K:BB over 24 frames in four starts since returning from the injured list in early May, and he'll attempt to continue that strong stretch Sunday.

Fried (2-2) earned the win Sunday, allowing a run on four hits and three walks with two strikeouts in seven innings versus Pittsburgh.

Fried allowed an RBI double to Bryan Reynolds in the first inning, but he was able to lock it down after that. The southpaw didn't miss a turn through the rotation after he was pulled from last Monday's game with hand cramps. The 27-year-old has allowed just a single run in each of his last four starts since returning from a hamstring strain. He's gotten his season back on track with the successful run -- he's got a 4.63 ERA, 1.49 WHIP and 34:14 K:BB in 35 innings overall. Fried lines up to face the Mets next weekend.

Fried (hand) will start Sunday's game against the Marlins as scheduled, 680 The Fan Atlanta reports.

The left-hander was pulled from his previous start Monday after six innings due to hand cramps, but he's good to go for his next turn through the rotation. Fried has pitched well in three starts since coming off the injured list in early May with a 1.59 ERA, 1.00 WHIP and 18:6 K:BB across 17 innings.

Fried was pulled from Monday's game against the Mets due to cramping in his left hand.

This is positive news for the Braves, as one of their top hurlers managed to avoid a significant injury. The team will continue to evaluate the lefty over the next few days to determine whether he'll be able to make his next scheduled start.

Fried left Monday's game against the Mets due to an undisclosed injury, Mark Bowman of MLB.com reports.

Fried gave up a leadoff double to begin the top of the seventh inning, which led to a visit from Atlanta's team trainer, and eventually his removal from the contest. The lefty didn't appear to be in a great deal of pain or discomfort as he exited, but the location of the issue has yet to be disclosed.

Fried allowed one earned run on two hits and three walks while striking out four across six innings Wednesday against the Blue Jays. He did not factor into the decision.

Fried wasn't at his best in the outing, as he walked more than two batters in a start for the first time this season. However, he also managed his longest start of the campaign and held the Blue Jays to just one extra-base hit. The effort lowered his season-long ERA to 6.55, though his 24:9 K:BB across 22 innings suggests that he has deserved better results. Fried projects to take the hill next on Monday against the Mets.

Fried (1-1) collected the win in Wednesday's 5-3 victory over the Nationals, allowing one run on four hits and a walk over five innings. He struck out six.

Aside from a Yan Gomes solo shot in the fourth inning, Fried was sharp in his return from a hamstring strain, tossing 45 of 72 pitches for strikes. The southpaw had a rough start to the season, but now that he's healthy he'll keep chipping away at his 8.44 ERA, and his 20:6 K:BB through 16 innings suggests his ratios could improve rapidly.

Fried (hamstring) was reinstated from the 10-day injured list Wednesday.

Fried's activation was expected, as the southpaw will start Wednesday's game against the Nationals. The 27-year-old completed a live batting practice session with no issues Thursday and will be pitching on normal rest. Fried posted an 11.45 ERA and 2.55 WHIP in 11 innings across his first three starts of the season before he was placed on the injured list.

Fried (hamstring) will return from the injured list and start Wednesday against the Nationals, David O'Brien of The Athletic reports.

The 27-year-old completed a live batting practice session with no issues last Thursday and will make his first start in just over three weeks Wednesday. Fried surrendered 14 runs over 11 innings through his first three starts of the season before landing on the injured list with the hamstring strain.

Atlanta manager Brian Snitker said Fried (hamstring) looked sharp while throwing a live batting practice session Thursday, David O'Brien of The Athletic reports.

In addition to throwing with no discomfort, Fried was able to field bunts and cover first base without incident, according to Snitker. Atlanta wants to see how Fried feels a day after the workout before deciding his next step, but he looks like he could be ready to return from the 10-day injured list early next week. If that's the case, Fried would likely start either Tuesday or Wednesday in Washington.

Fried (hamstring) will face hitters in a live batting practice session or simulated game Thursday, David O'Brien of The Athletic reports.

Fried threw off a mound Monday, though it was apparently not a live batting practice session as previously reported. He could be in line to start in Washington next week if he gets through Thursday's session without setbacks.

Fried (hamstring) could be activated during Atlanta's early-May series in Washington, which runs from May 4 to May 6, David O'Brien of The Athletic reports.

Fried has been out since April 13 due to a right hamstring strain. He threw off a mound Monday and will throw live batting practice later in the week, with an eye towards returning during the series against the Nationals if he gets through those sessions without setbacks.

Fried (hamstring) threw live batting practice Monday, Mark Bowman of MLB.com reports.

Fried has been out for just shy of two weeks with a strained right hamstring. Atlanta has yet to announce when he'll be activated, but it's possible he returns over the weekend against the Blue Jays. With that series being played in an American League park, Fried wouldn't have to worry about aggravating his hamstring issue while running the bases.

Fried (hamstring) threw a side session and took fielding drills Friday, Mark Bowman of MLB.com reports.

The southpaw is making progress in his recovery from a hamstring strain, but as yet there's no timetable for Fried's return to the rotation. As he's already been sidelined for two weeks, he'll need some time to ramp back up even after he's 100 percent healthy, and Atlanta won't want to risk Fried aggravating the injury by rushing him back.

Fried (hamstring) has been able to play catch but has yet to throw off a mound, David O'Brien of The Athletic reports.

Fried has spent the required 10 days on the injured list but remains without a timeline to return to action. He was initially expected to miss just one start, but he'll wind up missing two at a minimum.

Manager Brian Snitker said Wednesday that Fried (hamstring) is still considered day-to-day, David O'Brien of The Athletic reports.

Fried has been dealing with a right hamstring strain that he sustained while running the bases, and it's not yet clear when he'll be cleared to return to game action. If the southpaw is forced to miss another turn through the rotation, Bryse Wilson would likely start once again Sunday with Drew Smyly (forearm) slated to return from the 10-day injured list Saturday.

Atlanta placed Fried on the 10-day injured list Wednesday with a right hamstring strain.

Fried will be sidelined after tweaking his hamstring while running the bases during his start Tuesday against the Marlins. Considering that the young lefty had been roughed up for 13 runs (12 earned) in six innings over his last two starts, the trip to the IL could provide a well-timed break for Fried to get his mechanics right. Tucker Davidson was recalled from Atlanta's alternate site in a corresponding move, but Bryse Wilson could be the top candidate to fill Fried's spot in the rotation.

Fried (0-1) will undergo a precautionary MRI on his right hamstring after Tuesday's loss to the Marlins, David O'Brien of The Athletic reports. The left-hander took the loss after surrendering eight runs (seven earned) on nine hits with three strikeouts and two walks over four innings.

The 27-year-old apparently suffered the injury while running the bases after his final at-bat Tuesday, so it's not the reason behind his struggles for a second consecutive start. Fried's availability for his next turn through the rotation Sunday against the Cubs will remain up in the air until the results of the MRI are announced.

Fried lasted two innings in a no-decision Wednesday in Atlanta's 7-6 win over Washington in the first game of a doubleheader. He gave up five runs on eight hits and a walk while striking out three.

Fried struggled out of the gate in his second start of the season, giving up four runs in the first inning while the Nationals batted around the order. He allowed three more hits and a run before escaping the second inning, with one of the outs coming on a line drive that caromed off Fried's lower right leg over to third baseman Austin Riley, who tagged out Trea Turner. Fried remained in the game to face two more hitters in the inning, but manager Brian Snitker elected not to send out the struggling southpaw for the third. According to David O'Brien of The Athletic, Snitker said after the game that Fried was fine and was lifted early mainly as a precaution, so the 27-year-old should be ready to pitch when his next turn comes up Monday versus the Marlins.

Fried allowed two earned runs on six hits and two walks while striking out eight across five innings Thursday against the Phillies. He did not factor into the decision.

Fried allowed seven baserunners and both of his earned runs in the first three innings, particularly struggling with his control. However, he turned it on from there, punching out four hitters across his final two frames while keeping the basepaths much cleaner. His encouraging performance was backed by 19 swinging strikes on 94 total pitches. Fried currently lines up to make his second start of the season Tuesday at Washington.

Fried was named Atlanta's Opening Day starter Thursday and will get the nod April 1 against Aaron Nola and the Phillies.

Fried could be pushed for the role by a healthy Mike Soroka (Achilles) or Ian Anderson in the future, but he's the obvious choice this season coming off a year in which he cruised to a 2.25 ERA. Fried's xFIP (4.05) and SIERA (4.32) tell a very different story about his 2020 season, however, as it took a .268 BABIP, an 82.0 percent strand rate and a 4.9 percent HR/FB rate to get him to that excellent ERA, numbers which should all regress a fair amount this season. If he slides towards those ERA estimators this season, he'll be more of a mid-rotation starter than an ace, but he'll still be a useful arm for Atlanta.

Fried struck out three and didn't walk a batter over four innings Wednesday against the Red Sox in his first game action of the spring, Gabriel Burns of The Atlanta Journal-Constitution reports.

The southpaw tossed 51 pitches and was in attack mode from the jump, throwing first-pitch strikes to 12 of the 15 batters he faced. "For me, my first couple spring training starts, I'm normally trying to shy away from contact and trying to miss bats," Fried said afterwards. "Today, I wanted to attack hitters early, get some early contact and get the guys working behind me." He remains a candidate, and perhaps the favorite, to get the Opening Day assignment for Atlanta.

Fried will make his first start of the spring Wednesday against the Red Sox, Gabriel Burns of The Atlanta Journal-Constitution reports.

Potential exposure to someone with COVID-19 forced him into the league's protocols for a few days, delaying his prep for the regular season, but Fried got cleared over the weekend and is ready for his first Grapefruit League action. The 27-year-old will still be able to make four spring starts, giving him enough time to ramp up before Opening Day.

Fried (not injury related) was cleared to return to camp Saturday, Mark Bowman of MLB.com reports.

Fried was away from the team for several days after a "potential exposure" to somebody infected with COVID-19. However, he tested negative several times and will now be able to rejoin the team for workouts. The southpaw will likely complete at least one side session prior to making his spring debut, but he's expected to be ready for Opening Day.

Braves manager Brian Snitker said Thursday that Fried will be held out of workouts for at least a couple of days due to COVID-19-related concerns, David O'Brien of The Athletic reports.

According to Snitker, Fried didn't test positive for COVID-19, but the Braves fear he had "potential exposure" to an infected person.

Fried signed a one-year, $3.5 million deal with the Braves on Friday to avoid arbitration, David O'Brien of The Athletic reports.

The left-hander received a sizable figure in his first year of arbitration eligibility after posting a 2.25 ERA, 1.09 WHIP and 50:10 K:BB over 56 innings last season. Fried is poised to open the 2021 campaign as Atlanta's ace.

Fried took the loss in Game 6 of the NLCS against the Dodgers on Saturday, giving up three runs on eight hits while striking out five and walking four over 6.2 innings of work.

All the damage the Dodgers managed to do in the game was done in the first inning, as Fried allowed five straight batters to reach base, giving up back-to-back solo homers to Corey Seager and Justin Turner as well as an RBI single to Cody Bellinger. Neither Fried nor the relievers who followed him allowed any more runs the rest of the way, but that one rally was all the Dodgers would need in their 3-1 win. Fried's ERA now sits at 3.04 through four starts this postseason.

Fried allowed just one run in six innings in Game 1 of the NLCS against the Dodgers on Monday, striking out nine while walking two and allowing six hits. He did not factor into the decision.

Fried bounced back from an unimpressive NLDS outing against the Marlins with a gem against the Dodgers. The lefty allowed a pair of baserunners in each of the first two innings but settled down from there, allowing just a total of two more over his last four frames. One of those was a solo homer to Enrique Hernandez, which kept Fried from earning a win, but the outing on the whole was quite a strong one. He lines up to pitch Game 6 if necessary.

Fried gave up four runs on six hits and zero walks over four innings during the Game 1 win over the Marlins in the NLDS. He had four strikeouts and didn't factor in the decision.

Most of the damage came during the third inning as Miami tallied three runs on four hits, including a two-run double from Garrett Cooper. Fried could be available out of the bullpen toward the tail end of the five-game series, otherwise he lines up to start Game 1 of the NCLS if the Braves can complete the series win.

Fried allowed six hits over seven scoreless innings in a no-decision against the Reds on Wednesday in a Game 1 of the NL Wild Card Series. He struck out five and did not issue a walk.

While he was not quite as dominant as opposing starter Trevor Bauer, all that matters is that Fried hung zeros on the scoreboard. The lefty showcased his incredible curveball and worked out of two-on, one-out jams in the first, sixth and seventh innings as part of Atlanta's 13-inning combined shutout. Fried stepped up in a major way after the Braves lost Mike Soroka (Achilles) early on, posting a 2.25 ERA, 1.09 WHIP and 50:19 K:BB in 56 frames during the regular season. He will start Game 1 of the NLDS if the Braves are able to close this series out.

Fried (ankle) received full medical clearance Sunday and will take the hill Wednesday in Game 1 of the Braves' wild-card series against the Reds, Jon Morosi of MLB Network reports.

Just as Braves general manager Alex Anthopolous predicated days earlier, Fried was able to complete his between-starts throwing session without incident, leaving him available to start Atlanta's postseason opener. Fried was the top pitcher in an Atlanta rotation that struggled both from a health and performance standpoint in 2020. He finished the regular season with a 2.25 ERA, 1.09 WHIP and 50:19 K:BB across 56 innings.

General manager Alex Anthopoulos told MLB Network Radio on SiriusXM on Thursday that Fried (ankle) will be ready to start the Braves' first game of the playoffs.

He was pulled from Wednesday's start as a precautionary measure after he tweaked his ankle, but the minor injury will not affect his availability for the postseason. Atlanta will be leaning heavily on Fried during these playoffs, as their next best starting pitchers are all rookies.

Fried made a precautionary exit from Wednesday's start against the Marlins after tweaking his ankle, 680 The Fan Atlanta reports.

The 26-year-old suffered the injury while fielding a bunt during the first inning, and he headed to the clubhouse after completing the frame. He also allowed a pair of solo homers. It's no surprise the Braves are exercising caution with the playoffs starting next week, but it's not ideal for Fried to be leaving his final start of the regular season with an injury, even if they are labeling the removal as precautionary.

Fried (7-0) allowed one run on three hits and two walks while striking out three across five innings Friday against the Red Sox as he earned his seventh win of the season.

Fried entered Friday's contest with a 1.69 road ERA which was good for second-best in the MLB and stayed true to those numbers. In his first start off the injured list, he allowed a fifth-inning RBI double to Jeff McNeil but otherwise, the young lefty faced little pressure as he induced eight of his 15 outs via ground balls en route to a perfect 7-0 record on the season. Fried's 1.96 ERA is good for fourth in Major League Baseball and he has yet to surrender a home run in 10 starts this season. He'll look to keep things rolling in his next start Wednesday against the Marlins.

Fried (back) was reinstated from the 10-day injured list Thursday.

Fried was named Friday's starter after a short stint on the injured list with back spasms. The southpaw experienced a drop in velocity over his past two starts and faces a tough matchup against the Mets in his return to the mound.

The Braves will activate Fried (back) from the 10-day injured list to start Friday's game against the Mets, Gabriel Burns of The Atlanta Journal-Constitution reports.

As anticipated, Fried's bout with back spasms proved to be only a minor concern, as he'll end up spending just over the minimum amount of time on the IL before rejoining Atlanta's rotation. Prior to getting shut down, Fried noticed a steep downturn in velocity over his previous two starts, so fantasy managers in shallower leagues may not want to activate him right away while he takes on a Mets offense that ranks first in the majors this season with a 124 wRC+.

Fried (back) is expected to start Friday's game against the Mets, David O'Brien of The Athletic reports.

As expected, Fried's trip to the injured list will be a short one, barring a major setback. He was placed on the 10-day IL due to back spasms Tuesday and should return when first eligible.

Fried (back) is expected to return from the injured list when first eligible Sept. 16 or soon after, David O'Brien of The Athletic reports.

The Braves do not believe that the muscle spasm in Fried's back is particularly serious, and they initially intended to simply delay his next start by a few days before ultimately deciding to skip it entirely. Robbie Erlin appears to be the leading candidate to fill in for him Thursday against the Nationals.

The Braves placed Fried on the 10-day injured list Tuesday with a left side muscle spasm in his lumbar spine.

Fried's injury is another brutal blow to an already depleted Atlanta rotation, as the Braves' staff ace will now be shut down for at least the next week and a half with the spinal spasm. Atlanta called up Kyle Wright in a corresponding move ahead of his scheduled start Tuesday against the Marlins, but the Braves will still require a replacement in the rotation for Fried in Thursday's series opener versus the Nationals. Fried wasn't reported to be dealing with any injury coming out of his most recent outing over the weekend, but the back/spine issue may explain why his velocity has been noticeably down over his last two starts. Per Brooks Baseball, Fried's four-seam fastball averaged 91.97 miles per hour in his last outing, about a tick and a half below his season average (93.41 mph).

Fried allowed three earned runs on five hits and three walks while striking out four across five innings Saturday against Washington. He did not factor into the decision.

Fried struggled to find his command early, issuing two free passes and hitting a batter in the first frame. That resulted in two of his earned runs. He did settle in from there, as the only additional run came on a botched double play ball in the fifth inning. Fried has been stellar through 50 innings this season, maintaining a 1.98 ERA with 47 strikeouts. He's in line to draw his next start Thursday at Washington.

Fried (6-0) allowed two runs on two walks and five hits over five innings Monday, striking out five and picking up the win over Boston.

Fried was a bit shaky to start the game, allowing a run in the first and third innings before settling in. He's a perfect 6-0 on the season and is currently riding a four-start win streak. The 26-year-old owns a stellar 1.60 ERA and 43:14 K:BB across 45 innings this year. Fried will take on the Nationals at home Saturday.

Fried (5-0) allowed one earned run on four hits and one walk while striking out five across six innings to earn the win in the second game of Atlanta's doubleheader Wednesday against the Yankees.

Fried allowed only one hit through three innings and held the Yankees' lineup in check for nearly the entirety of the outing. The only trouble he ran into came in the fifth frame, when he allowed a a single and double to the first two batters he faced. The performance was a continuation of Fried's dominance to this point in the season, as he's allowed no more than two earned runs in any start and has allowed zero or one earned run in six of his seven outings. He'll look to keep that going in his next turn through the rotation, currently projected to come Tuesday at Boston.

Fried (4-0) allowed just one run on five hits and two walks while striking out five across five innings as he earned the win Friday over the Phillies.

Fried continued his dominant stretch on the mound to begin the season as the 2012 first-round pick has now given up one run or fewer in five of his six starts. Fried is currently third in MLB with a 1.32 ERA and has solidified himself as the ace of the rotation with Mike Soroka (Achilles) done for the year.

Fried didn't factor into the decision in Saturday's 2-1 win over the Marlins, allowing four hits and three walks over 6.1 scoreless innings. He struck out seven.

The lefty dazzled once again, throwing 67 of 103 pitches for strikes, and Fried was in line for his fourth win of the year before Will Smith blew the lead in the eighth inning. Fried now has an NL-leading 1.24 ERA to go along with a 28:9 K:BB through 29 innings, and he'll look to keep rolling in his next outing Friday, at home against the Phillies.

Fried (3-0) tossed five scoreless innings Sunday, allowing four hits and a walk while earning the win in the second game of the doubleheader against the Phillies. He struck out six.

Once again, Fried was terrific with his fourth consecutive start allowing two or fewer runs to start the season. He put himself in a bit of danger in the fifth inning; a single, a walk, and a hit batter loaded the bases, but Fried escaped after forcing Bryce Harper to fly out. The 26-year-old southpaw will carry a 1.59 ERA into Saturday's road matchup with the Marlins.

Fried (2-0) picked up the win in Tuesday's 10-1 rout of the Blue Jays, allowing one run on four hits and two walks over six innings while striking out three.

The southpaw only threw 48 of 80 pitches for strikes, but other than a couple of leadoff doubles, Toronto hitters weren't able to make much solid contact against him. Fried will look to keep rolling in his next start, scheduled for Sunday in Philadelphia.

Fried (1-0) picked up the win Thursday after holding the Rays to one run on three hits and a walk while striking out seven across 6.2 innings.

It was a top-notch performance for Fried, who retired his first 14 batters while holding Tampa Bay scoreless until the seventh. After punching out the side in the first inning, Fried remained perfect until a two-out single by Mike Brosseau in the fifth frame. Luckily the threat was immediately erased as Fried picked Brosseau off at first. He then allowed a single to Manuel Margot and walked Yandy Diaz in the sixth, but avoided any damage once again. The end of his outing came two outs into the seventh after allowing a double to Willy Adames, who soon scored after reliever Luke Jackson gave up an RBI single to Ji-Man Choi, charging Fried with the run. Overall, Fried was beyond efficient, pitching deeper into the game than any other Braves pitcher this year. He'll take the mound again Tuesday for a matchup against Toronto.

Fried pitched five innings, allowing two runs on two hits and two walks while striking out five in a no-decision versus the Mets on Saturday.

Fried actually had a no-hitter going into the fifth inning before he surrendered an RBI triple to Amed Rosario and a sacrifice fly to Jeff McNeil. Fried was taken off the hook for the loss when Marcell Ozuna tied the game for the Braves in the ninth inning. In his first full season as a starter, Fried posted a 4.02 ERA and 173 strikeouts in 165.2 innings last year. His next turn in the rotation comes Thursday at home versus the Rays.

Fried will start Saturday's game against the Marlins, David O'Brien of The Athletic reports.

Mike Soroka is set to handle Opening Day duties, and Fried will receive the nod for the second game of the season. The Braves previously indicated they will employ limited pitch counts early on for their starters, so neither pitcher figures to reach their traditional workload. Fried had a 4.02 ERA, 1.33 WHIP and 173:47 K:BB in 165.2 innings over his 33 outings last season.

Fried threw a live batting practice session Friday, David O'Brien of The Athletic reports.

The team will begin intrasquad scrimmages next week, but until then sessions like this will have to make do for the pitching staff. Fried is likely to be among the Atlanta arms on limited pitch counts to begin the season, which could make him a risky fantasy option the first couple turns through the rotation.

General manager Alex Anthopolous said Wednesday that the Braves will limit their starters to 2-4 innings their first couple times through the rotation, David O'Brien of The Athletic reports.

It's not overly surprising news given the elongated shutdown, but Anthopolous is the first GM to public say as much. Teams will have access to expanded rosters -- 30-man rosters to start -- so there's no real incentive to push starters right out of the gate following a brief secondary spring training. Fried still figures to see his fair share of innings during the 60-game campaign after posting a 4.02 ERA and 1.33 WHIP during his first full season as a starter in the majors last year.

Fried gave up two hits and five walks over 4.2 scoreless innings in Wednesday's Grapefruit League game against the Twins. He struck out three.

While the southpaw was able to escape with no damage, the five free passes are hard to ignore. Fried now has a 5:9 K:BB through 7.2 spring innings despite his seemingly respectable 3.52 ERA, but he still has a couple weeks to iron out the kinks before Opening Day.

Fried gave up three hits and two walks over 2.2 scoreless innings against the Rays on Saturday, Dawn Klemish of MLB.com reports. He struck out one.

While it wasn't the cleanest outing for the left-hander, it was a vast improvement on Fried's spring debut, when he lasted only one-third of an inning against the Jays. "He looked better," Atlanta manager Brian Snitker said. "He's still not there yet, but... he looked a little more on the attack and commanded things better, which I figured he would." Fried, who is working to refine his changeup in camp, is expected to open the season as the team's No. 2 starter on the heels of a breakout 2019.