The Atlanta Braves made the postseason in 2024, but they could lose an All-Star to a needy team in free agency. The New York Yankees could target one of the Braves’ best players if they lose Juan Soto.

While making free agency predictions, Bleacher Report’s Zach Buckley predicted that the Yankees could target Max Fried if they lose Soto.

Buckley’s prediction stemmed from The New York Post’s Mike Puma noting that the Yankees had a productive meeting with Fried that lasted over an hour.

“Sources indicated that nine team officials, including general manager Brian Cashman, manager Aaron Boone and pitching coach Matt Blake joined in the Zoom call with Fried, which lasted more than an hour,” wrote Puma. “The Yankees are hardly alone among AL East teams showing interest in Fried — the Red Sox, Blue Jays and Orioles are also in on him.”

Fried is a two-time All-Star and has been a staple of the Braves during their recent success. Fried had a 3.25 ERA last season and struck out 166 in 29 starts. He could be a real asset in the rotation with Gerrit Cole.

The Braves would be losing a key contributor if Fried were to leave. The only benefit in this scenario is that he would be going to the American League. The Braves will be tasked with replacing Fried, but they may opt to go for a cheaper option.

Fried and Corbin Burnes are the top remaining starters on the market after Blake Snell signed with the Dodgers. If Snell’s five-year, $182 deal is any indication of the Market, Fried may be too pricey for the Braves. Spotrac projects Fried to sign a six-year, $136 million deal in free agency.

More MLB: Braves All-Star predicted to dump Atlanta for $175 million deal with Blue Jays