Max Fried is another step closer to returning to the New York Yankees. Manager Aaron Boone said Tuesday that Fried's next step will be a live batting practice session Saturday at Double-A Somerset, marking another important milestone in the left-hander's recovery from a left elbow bone bruise.
If he comes through the workout without any issues, he is expected to begin a minor league rehab assignment shortly afterward.
Fried has steadily progressed through long-toss, bullpen sessions and a previous live batting practice as the Yankees continue to build up his workload. Saturday's session is viewed as the final hurdle before he returns to competitive game action.
Before landing on the injured list in May, Fried was one of the Yankees' most reliable starters. Through 10 starts, he posted a 4-3 record with a 3.21 ERA, a 1.01 WHIP and 50 strikeouts across 61.2 innings.
The 32-year-old signed an eight-year, $218 million contract with New York before the 2025 season after spending eight seasons with the Atlanta Braves. His return would provide a significant boost to a rotation that has dealt with multiple injuries during the first half.
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Boone did not provide a firm timetable for Fried's return, but Saturday's live batting practice will determine whether he is ready to begin a rehab assignment. From there, the Yankees will continue increasing his pitch count before activating him.
Getting Fried back would strengthen New York's rotation heading into the second half and provide another proven starter as the club pushes toward the postseason. If Saturday goes as planned, his first rehab appearance could come shortly after the weekend.
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