Atlanta Braves All-Star and fan favorite Max Fried is now an unrestricted free agent, and there’s growing speculation he might leave Atlanta for a new team. Fried is expected to command a lucrative deal, with projections ranging from $150 million to $175 million. While the Braves have made retaining him their top priority this offseason, it’s unclear if the feeling is mutual.

Bleacher Report’s Zachary Rymer recently ranked Fried’s top 10 free agency destinations, placing the Toronto Blue Jays ahead of the Braves, New York Mets, and other teams. “According to Heyman and Passan, Fried is on the Blue Jays’ radar. If they secure him as their marquee signing, they’ll double down on their focus on run prevention,” Rymer noted. “Pairing Fried with Gausman, Berríos, Francis, and Bassitt would arguably give Toronto the strongest rotation in the American League. It’s a bold move but could pay off.”

The Blue Jays have been aggressive in pursuing top free agents and remain heavily involved in the Juan Soto sweepstakes. If they miss out on Soto, signing Fried to anchor their rotation would be a significant boost. With their sights set on big acquisitions, Fried could be the key to making Toronto a contender in the AL East once again.