In the world of Major League Baseball, where the scarcity of elite starting pitchers often dictates the financial landscape of teams, Max Fried and Blake Snell have emerged as two of the most compelling figures in recent memory. Both left-handers have demonstrated their prowess on the mound, albeit in quite different ways, leading to their expectation of substantial financial offers in the coming years. But while both are undoubtedly elite, a closer look at their careers and reputations reveals contrasting portraits of dependability and dynamism.
Max Fried: The Pillar of Consistency
Max Fried’s resume speaks volumes of reliability and excellence. With a career ERA+ of 140 across nearly 900 innings, Fried's excellence isn’t a flash in the pan but a sustained level of performance that few of his contemporaries can match. Even in his least productive season as a full-time starter—where injury curtailed his year to just 14 starts—Fried still managed a respectable WAR of 2.6. His track record paints the picture of a pitcher who delivers consistent value and resolute command every time he steps onto the field.
This dependability has certainly not gone unnoticed among experts. As Matt Snyder aptly puts it, "Fried is the much safer option... a much more steady presence." R.J. Anderson echoes this sentiment, preferring the consistency Fried offers: "I guess if I had my druthers I would take Fried... he doesn’t have the same command-related crater risk." This perception of stability cements Fried's status as a reliable cornerstone for any pitching rotation.
Blake Snell: The Evocative Enigma
In contrast, Blake Snell's career can best be described as a rollercoaster of spectacular highs and perplexing lows. Acclaimed for winning two Cy Young awards, Snell is celebrated for his ability to dominate games with a flair few can rival. Mike Axisa captures the essence of Snell's magnificence succinctly: "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 career has also been punctuated by inconsistency, primarily marked by high walk rates and fluctuating WAR outputs. Dayn Perry's observation highlights an ongoing concern: "it's hard for me to overlook his chronic command-and-control issues." These issues contribute to a perception of risk, one where Snell’s performances can be dazzling yet unpredictable.
The Financial Outlook and the Choices Teams Face
The financial landscape for both pitchers is intriguingly parallel. Despite their contrasting profiles, R.J. Anderson suspects that their financial outlook might be similar, influenced by their ages and track records. For teams looking to invest in pitching talent, this presents an interesting dilemma. Should they opt for the steady effectiveness of Fried or gamble on the high-ceiling potential of Snell?
Matt Snyder's preference is clear: "I like gambling at times, but less so with southpaw pitchers in their 30s. Gimme the safe option in Fried." This perspective is reflective of a broader sentiment within baseball where certainty often holds more value in long-term financial commitments.
In conclusion, the choices between Max Fried and Blake Snell encapsulate a larger dialogue in baseball concerning risk, reward, and reliability. As teams weigh these factors, the careers of Fried and Snell serve as reminders of the artistry and complexity inherent in the game. Elite talents, they stand on the precipice of lucrative deals that will likely define the next chapters of their storied careers. The only certainty is that both pitchers will continue to captivate fans with each pitch that streaks across the plate.