Max Fried dominates with 13 strikeouts in Yankees' win

In Baltimore, on September 18, 2025, Max Fried struck out 13 hitters while pitching seven innings, leading the New York Yankees to a 7-0 victory over the Baltimore Orioles. This win marked Fried's 18th victory of the season, establishing him as the major league leader in wins. His performance contributed significantly to the Yankees' recent surge, as they improved their standing in the American League East, now just three games behind division leaders, the Toronto Blue Jays. The Yankees have demonstrated a competitive spirit with a record of 17 wins and 7 losses since August 23, substantially bolstering their playoff aspirations. Fried's dominance on the mound was showcased through his effective mix of fastballs, changeups, and a notably slow curveball, which proved overwhelming for the Orioles lineup. He allowed only three hits, all singles, solidifying his case as the Yankees' ace starting pitcher. This impressive performance tied his career-high strikeout number, previously achieved while he was with the Atlanta Braves. The Orioles threatened to score in the sixth inning with runners on the corners, but Fried extinguished the threat by striking out Tyler O'Neill, maintaining the Yankees' lead. The Yankees’ offense provided solid support, with timely contributions from players like Amed Rosario and Giancarlo Stanton, who added runs through timely hits. The victory allowed the Yankees to climb closer to a potential playoff position, demonstrating their resilience and abilities after experiencing a rough stretch in prior months. As Fried continues to regain his form, he has positioned himself as a vital component in the Yankees' rotation, particularly as the team aims for a deep playoff run. Fried's current form stands in stark contrast to his earlier season struggles and contributes to a renewed confidence among Yankees fans and management alike. Manager Aaron Boone praised Fried’s abilities, categorizing him as an ace in the league. As the postseason approaches, Fried's continued performance will be crucial, not only for the team's success but also for achieving individual accolades as one of the top pitchers in the league. This win not only showcases Fried's recovery but also reinforces the Yankees' shift in momentum, reflecting their upward trajectory as they navigate the final stretch of the regular season.