Max Fried Offers All-Star Start to Tarik Skubal in MLB

Max Fried of the New York Yankees made a notable gesture by calling Detroit Tigers ace Tarik Skubal to offer him the starting pitcher role for the 2025 MLB All-Star Game, which was held in Atlanta. Fried, who had pitched recently and was ineligible to start, insisted that Skubal deserved the opportunity despite Fried's own strong season and ties to Atlanta, where the game took place. Skubal, the reigning American League Cy Young Award winner, accepted the offer and later received confirmation from Yankees manager Aaron Boone. Fried's act was widely praised as a display of professionalism and respect within the competitive nature of baseball. Fried had to opt out of the All-Star Game due to a blister injury and a short rest period following his last start. This event highlighted the camaraderie and sportsmanship between players, demonstrating mutual respect beyond competition.