The Los Angeles Dodgers are still riding high after capturing the 2024 World Series title, but the off-season beckons with its own set of challenges. As they turn their attention to tightening up their roster for another championship run, there’s chatter about them pursuing free-agent shortstop Willy Adames—a fit that seems almost too perfect. However, there’s buzz that Andrew Friedman, the team’s president of baseball operations, might have his sights set elsewhere, perhaps on acquiring two-time All-Star ace Max Fried.

Fried, with his roots in Santa Monica, CA, has been a standout performer for the Atlanta Braves. Since making his debut in 2017, Fried has established himself as a reliable ace, boasting impressive stats: a 73-36 record, a 3.07 ERA, a 1.16 WHIP, and an impressive 863 strikeouts over 884 1/3 innings. For the Dodgers, who are facing some uncertainty with their current pitching lineup—especially with Jack Flaherty and Walker Buehler stepping into free agency—Fried could be the stabilizing force they need.

Even though the Dodgers’ rotation seems well-stocked on paper, health concerns and performance inconsistencies loom large. Fried’s consistent track record could be the perfect remedy.

Yet, the temptation to bolster their lineup with a powerful bat like Adames is undeniable. His addition would enhance an already formidable offense, enticing as it is.

But with many contenders eyeing Adames, the competition and potential bidding wars might steer the Dodgers towards shoring up their pitching staff instead.

According to Ryan Finkelstein of Just Baseball, the Dodgers might indeed opt to strengthen their mound presence. Finkelstein forecasts that while Adames could land a hefty eight-year, $192 million deal with the Philadelphia Phillies, the Dodgers might commit $190 million to Fried over seven years. As Finkelstein noted, “Whoever lands Fried is getting a pitcher with a career 3.07 ERA, who has surpassed 165 innings in four of the last five full seasons since 2019.”

With the Braves seemingly hesitant to secure Fried with a contract extension, the door opens for the Dodgers to bring him into their fold. If Fried does indeed step away from Atlanta, joining a team of the Dodgers’ caliber would be a fitting move for someone of his talents—especially if his free agency value climbs above $30 million per year over potentially six or more years.