The Yankees’ $218 million free agent signing indeed will be regarded as the new staff ace, but it’s unlikely two-time All-Star Max Fried will debut in pinstripes on Opening Day.

While the loss of long-time ace Gerrit Cole has no doubt harmed the New York Yankees ' hopes in 2025 and stripped them from a steadying presence at the front of the rotation, they do have another ace ready to step into that particular breach.

Yankees pitcher Max Fried spoke about the pressure of replacing Gerrit Cole following his injury, emphasizing his focus on being himself rather than f

TAMPA, Fla. — Besides the humongous paychecks Max Fried signed up for when picking the Yankees during his winter free agency, $27.25 million for the next eight seasons for a grand total of $218 million, the now ex-Atlanta Braves staff ace was looking forward to being a No. 1A starter.

The New York Yankees hinted at a surprising choice for their $218 million pitcher with Gerrit Cole out for the season.

Despite the loss of staff ace Gerrit Cole, Max Fried says the dream of winning a World Series with the Yankees "hasn't changed."

Plans for a pair of aces are on hold with Gerrit Cole out for the 2025 season before it began, pushing Max Fried to the front of the New York Yankees' rotation.

Access the Yankees beat like never before Join Post Sports+ for exciting subscriber-only features, including real-time texting with Greg Joyce about the inside buzz on the Yankees from spring training Try it free TAMPA — Add one more quirk to a Yankees rotation that has become quirky: Without their No.

The New York Yankees thought they were forming a formidable duo atop their rotation when they signed Max Fried to an eight-year, $218 million deal this offseason, but that will not be the case with Gerrit Cole needing Tommy John surgery and expecting to miss the 2025 season.