Yankees Ace Max Fried Reports Improving Blister, Avoids Injured List

Max Fried, the New York Yankees' ace, is dealing with a blister on his left index finger that forced him to leave his start early and miss the All-Star Game. Despite the injury, Fried remains optimistic about avoiding a stint on the injured list, noting that the blister is improving and that the timing during the All-Star break could aid his recovery. Manager Aaron Boone and teammates like Aaron Judge express cautious optimism, highlighting Fried's importance to the team and his history of managing similar blister issues during his time with the Atlanta Braves. Fried has been a key performer for the Yankees, stepping up as the ace after Gerrit Cole's season-ending surgery, boasting a strong 2.43 ERA and 11-3 record so far. The Yankees are prepared to adjust his pitching schedule to allow more healing time if necessary, while also looking to other pitchers like Luis Gil to bolster the rotation in the second half. Fried’s history of blisters and his methodical approach to managing this injury suggest he is focused on returning to form quickly for the Yankees’ playoff push.