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Max Fried will take the bump for Yankees’ ALDS Game 3 — whether his girlfriend gives birth or not

The New York Yankees have entrusted Max Fried with the high-stakes Game 3 of the ALDS against the Tampa Bay Rays, despite his girlfriend’s impending childbirth. Fried, who has been fully recovered since missing over two weeks in August with an elbow injury, will take the mound regardless of personal developments, emphasizing his commitment to the team’s playoff push.

His decision comes after a mixed start to the series, with Gerrit Cole and Cam Schlittler struggling against the Rays’ potent lineup, which combines power hitting and aggressive baserunning. Fried’s left-handed advantage is notable, as the Rays have shown a weaker offensive performance against southpaws this season, while his diverse pitch mix could help neutralize Tampa Bay’s contact-heavy approach.

With the Yankees’ bullpen potentially stretched thin and Cole expected to be available in relief, Fried’s performance will be critical in determining whether New York can extend its postseason run.

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