The team had already talked to the lefty starter a week before Juan Soto made his decision to sign a 15-year contract with the Mets.

Max Fried's demeanor and desire impressed New York reporters at his introductionary news conference ... [+] last December. (AP Photo/Frank Franklin II) In addition to switching teams and leagues, Max Fried faces the pressure of pitching in New York and living up to a contract that is a record for a left-handed pitcher.

Access the Yankees beat like never before Join Post Sports+ for exciting subscriber-only features, including real-time texting with Greg Joyce about the inside buzz on the Yankees from spring training Try it free TAMPA — The last time a high-priced lefty free agent starter pitched his first game during spring training,