2 reasons the Braves should consider trading Max Fried and 2 reasons they shouldn't

Trading Max Fried could free up money

Max Fried and the Atlanta Braves agreed to a one-year, $15 million deal in January 2024. Given that the contract was only for a year, this could indicate both parties know their time together is drawing to a close.

At season's end, Max Fried will become one of the biggest names on the free agent market. With his performance so far this year, he will be looking for a long and well-deserved contract. His deal would at minimum be around the same as Yankees pitcher Carlos Rodon.

In 2023, Rodon signed a six-year, $162 million contract which is a $27 million AAV. Max Fried is a much better pitcher than Rodon so he could argue he's worth more than that price tag. However, this simply means Rodon's contract is a starting point for Fried and his representation.

To get the money Fried desires, he will likely be looking for a long-term deal as well. The left-hander is currently 30 years of age so anything beyond a 4-year deal may feel a little too uncomfortable for Atlanta. Signing a pitcher to that long of a contract is an extremely difficult decision to make.

With this being the case, don't be surprised if AA saves his checkbook for other names to improve the team after the season expires. If this is his plan, moving Fried could be the smartest decision.