The Atlanta Braves focused on getting Fried as part of their trade of Justin Upton after the 2014 deal, knowing they would have to be patient and wait until 2016 to see him.
Fried was drafted 7th overall by the San Diego Padres in 2012 out of high school in California. He was a high school friend and competitor with Lucas Giolito, and many felt it was a legit question on who was the better pitcher in high school.
The Padres started Fried with their Arizona Rookie League team.