When the Yankees signed him this past winter, they envisioned Fried as a second option behind franchise ace Gerrit Cole. But Cole went down for the year during spring training and the team could be in need of a frontline replacement in the next few weeks as Fried starts to wane.

ATLANTA — All eyes remained on Max Fried’s hand, rather than his arm, as he arrived at his former home. The Yankees ace said the blister that developed on his left index finger Saturday is improving, which has left him hopeful that he can avoid a trip to the injured list.