Getty

SEATTLE, WASHINGTON - APRIL 01: Aaron Judge #99 of the New York Yankees looks on after the game against the Seattle Mariners at T-Mobile Park on April 01, 2026 in Seattle, Washington. (Photo by Steph Chambers/Getty Images)

The New York Yankees had spent most of the early season looking like a team with the rotation depth to survive almost anything. Max Fried had helped make that possible. Fried gave the Yankees a true front-line starter at the top of the rotation, alongside Cam Schlittler.

Now, over the last three weeks, the injuries are starting to pile up for New York. Giancarlo Stanton, Jasson Domínguez, and José Caballero all landed on the injured list. Then Wednesday in Baltimore, Fried walked off the mound after three innings and did not return. The Yankees starter was heading for an MRI.

Aaron Judge recently addressed what Fried’s injury means for the club.

Judge Speaks on Fried

Judge did not minimize the concern. He also did not make it sound bigger than it needed to be.

“It’s always a little concern anytime any of your pitchers have any issue with the elbow or shoulder,” Judge said. “I’m hoping to hear some good news. Max is a tough kid. He’s meant a lot to this organization since he came over here. That’s why we went after him and signed him. Like I said, I don’t got a lot of info, but hopefully hear good news soon.”

Judge knows what Fried has meant to the Yankees. Losing him for any stretch would change the shape of the rotation. The captain then pointed to the same thing that has helped New York absorb injuries already. Depth.

The Yankees have needed it across the roster. They may need it again on the mound.

What Comes Next for Fried

The Yankees sent Fried for imaging and an examination with team physician Dr. Christopher Ahmad, leaving the club to wait on results before making the next decision.

Fried tried to calm the concern afterward.

“I’m not too worried about a super long-term thing,” Fried said.

That is encouraging, but it does not erase the uncertainty. Fried has dealt with elbow history before, including Tommy John surgery in 2014.

“If I can, I would love to be able to make my next start, but we’ll see,” Fried added.

GettyARLINGTON, TEXAS – APRIL 27: Max Fried #54 of the New York Yankees pitches against the Texas Rangers in the first inning at Globe Life Field on April 27, 2026 in Arlington, Texas. (Photo by Richard Rodriguez/Getty Images)

Yankees Have Rotation Options

The Yankees are not without cover if Fried needs more time.

Carlos Rodón recently returned from the injured list. Cam Schlittler, Will Warren, and Ryan Weathers have all given the Yankees useful innings. Elmer Rodríguez could be an option if New York needs a spot starter next week.

The Yankees also expect Gerrit Cole back soon, possibly by the end of the month. He has been impressive in his recent rehab starts.

GettyTAMPA, FLORIDA – FEBRUARY 28: Gerrit Cole #45 of the New York Yankees throws a pitch in the second inning during a spring training game against the Toronto Blue Jays at George M. Steinbrenner Field on February 28, 2025 in Tampa, Florida. (Photo by Brandon Sloter/Getty Images)

Final Word for the Yankees

Judge’s response was measured. There is concern. There should be. Fried is not just another starter.

The Yankees have depth. They have arms. They have Cole moving closer to a return. If Fried’s issue is short-term, they can survive the next turn or two and keep the rotation intact until the bigger pieces line up.

That is the hope.

The MRI will decide how realistic it is.