Max Fried Sidelined by Blister Issue, Optimistic for Return Against Blue Jays

New York Yankees pitcher Max Fried, originally scheduled to start the team's first game after the All-Star break against the Braves, was sidelined due to a blister issue, preventing his return to Atlanta where he pitched his first eight major-league seasons. The injury, which has sidelined the 11-3 pitcher (2.43 ERA) through the weekend, forced the Yankees to rely on a third-choice starter. Fried expressed optimism about pitching in the Yankees' upcoming series against the Toronto Blue Jays, though manager Aaron Boone noted the team is in "a little bit of a tough spot" regarding their pitching rotation.