The New York Yankees are actively exploring the market this winter, seeking ways to enhance their roster. Regardless of whether they sign Juan Soto, the team is expected to bring in several new players for the 2025 season.

If they do sign Soto, it could influence their other potential moves, but there is a possibility they might still make additional high-profile signings. If they’re willing to commit over $600 million to Soto, spending another $100 million may not be out of the question.

The Yankees are reportedly interested in left-handed pitcher Max Fried, a starter who Bleacher Report’s Joel Reuter predicts will sign a seven-year, $175 million contract with the Toronto Blue Jays.

“When healthy, Max Fried has been one of the top pitchers in baseball for the Atlanta Braves, and despite some arm issues in 2023, he made 29 starts and pitched 174.1 innings in his contract year,” Reuter wrote on December 5. “Aaron Nola signed a seven-year, $172 million extension with the Phillies last winter at the same age. Although Nola has been more consistent and durable, Fried is the second-best pitcher on the market and capable of ace-level performance.” Reuter also noted that the Blue Jays, who were ready to make a big splash for Shohei Ohtani last year, will likely want to show free-agent Vladimir Guerrero Jr. that they are serious about competing.

Yankees’ Meeting with Fried

The Yankees recently met with Fried through a productive 90-minute Zoom call. While Fried’s potential price of $175 million could be challenging for the Yankees, there is strong interest in signing him.

Yankees announcer Michael Kay mentioned that Fried’s camp expressed positive feedback about the team. “Max really liked them,” Kay said, adding that another meeting is likely to follow.

Could the Yankees Sign Both Fried and Soto?

Whether the Yankees can afford to sign both Soto and Fried remains to be seen. If the team is determined to win a World Series, pursuing both players isn’t out of the question.

However, given the substantial financial commitment, the Yankees might opt to reconsider. Some believe it’s possible, though Mike Puma of the New York Post speculates that Fried would only be a target if Soto were to sign elsewhere.

“Soto, the top free agent this year, is expected to make a decision before the winter meetings wrap up, with one source suggesting a resolution could come this weekend,” Puma wrote on December 4. “With Soto likely to receive a contract worth at least $600 million, it seems unlikely the Yankees would target a major pitcher if they keep him. However, Fried could become a priority if Soto chooses to sign with the Mets, Red Sox, Blue Jays, or Dodgers, the other top contenders.”