Fryman made just 13 appearances and was 2–4 with a 5.17 ERA for the Cubs when he was dealt to the Montreal Expos for a player to be named later (Jerry White) midway through the season. Turning 39 at the start of the season, Fryman was converted into a full-time relief pitcher by manager Dick Williams. He made the postseason for the second time in his career following the strike shortened 1981 season. In the 1981 National League Division Series against the Philadelphia Phillies, he pitched 1 inning, and gave up one earned run. In the 1981 National League Championship Series, he gave up four earned runs to the Los Angeles Dodgers in one inning pitched.