New York Yankees pitcher Max Fried is set to start Game 3 of the American League Division Series against the Tampa Bay Rays on Wednesday, with his team facing elimination. Fried confirmed Tuesday that his wife is expecting their first child imminently, but stated that the impending birth will not affect his ability to pitch.
"I've got a really supportive family that understands that this is my job, and it's not going to affect what happens tomorrow," Fried said. When asked if the baby complicated his plans, he simply responded, "No."
The Yankees trail the Rays 2-0 in the series and must win three consecutive games to advance. Fried's commitment to pitch comes shortly after the San Diego Padres placed closer Mason Miller on the paternity list for the birth of his first child. Miller blew a save in Game 2, though the Padres went on to win Game 3 against the Milwaukee Brewers.
Fried has had a strong season when healthy, posting a 2.80 ERA over 112.2 innings. He recently delivered a six-inning, one-run performance against the Boston Red Sox in the Wild Card Round. However, the Yankees' offense has struggled significantly in the ALDS, hitting .086 as a team, with only Ben Rice and Austin Wells contributing offensively. The series continues with Game 3 in the Bronx, with first pitch scheduled for after 8 p.m. ET.