In the modern era of Major League Baseball, the conversation surrounding elite pitchers often circles back to two names: Max Fried and Blake Snell. Both have etched their mark with distinct accomplishments and unique styles, making them prime candidates for considerable financial attention in the upcoming off-season. However, as teams weigh their options, the decision between the two presents an intriguing conundrum.
Max Fried: Consistency and Stability
Max Fried's allure lies in his unwavering consistency. He's carved out a reputation as a bastion of reliability on the mound. With a career ERA+ of 140 over nearly 900 innings, Fried has demonstrated robust command and effectiveness—a trait that earns him high praise from analysts and peers alike.
Even in his more challenging seasons, Fried has managed to maintain solid performance levels. As Matt Snyder aptly notes, "Fried is the much safer option... a much more steady presence." In a season where injuries curtailed his ability to start more than 14 games, Fried still amassed a respectable WAR of 2.6, underscoring his intrinsic value even when not operating at full capacity. This consistency positions Fried as a top asset in any rotation, shielding teams from the dreaded command-related pitfalls.
Blake Snell: High Reward with High Risks
On the other side of the spectrum is Blake Snell. Snell has cemented his status as a premier pitcher with two Cy Young awards to his name, a testament to his explosive potential and game-changing performances. His prowess at striking out batters is well recognized, with Mike Axisa highlighting, "When he's on, he's as good as any pitcher in the game... Snell is one of the game's premier bat-missers."
However, Snell's journey is coupled with bouts of inconsistency, largely stemming from control issues. These fluctuations have led to varying WAR outputs and have prompted scrutiny from observers. Dayn Perry succinctly summarizes this concern, stating, "it's hard for me to overlook his chronic command-and-control issues." Snell's high walk rates have been a persistent challenge, creating a dynamic where his potential brilliance is occasionally offset by instability inherent in his game.
The Financial Outlook
The impending free agency period promises substantial offers for both players, reflecting the market's demand for elite starting pitchers. R.J. Anderson speculates, "I suspect they might have a similar financial outlook based on their ages and track records." This insight suggests that despite their differing styles and risk profiles, teams may ultimately view Fried and Snell through a similar financial lens, influenced by the scarcity of top-tier starters.
As franchises deliberate on where to allocate their resources, the decision may boil down to the degree of risk they are willing to assume. Anderson encapsulates this sentiment by stating, "I guess if I had my druthers I would take Fried... he doesn't have the same command-related crater risk." Meanwhile, Matt Snyder reflects on his preference for security over volatility, expressing, "I like gambling at times, but less so with southpaw pitchers in their 30s. Gimme the safe option in Fried."
Ultimately, the choice between Max Fried and Blake Snell presents a classic baseball debate: consistency versus potential brilliance. As the offseason unfolds, the market will finally reveal just how much teams are willing to invest in either a safe bet or a high-reward gamble. Whichever path teams choose, both pitchers stand ready to make significant impacts on their future rosters.