Freddie Freeman, the Dodgers’ star first baseman, seems to have an ironclad physique. Despite suffering a right hand fracture earlier this August, he continued to compete. On September 27, he twisted his right ankle, and doctors estimated that he would typically need to be sidelined for four to six weeks. However, Freeman remains confident, stating that missing the Division Series is simply not an option for him. On the 4th, he was seen practicing on the field, displaying smooth footwork while fielding ground balls at first base.
Freeman’s ankle injury occurred during a play on the bases on September 27, when he stumbled after reaching first and was immediately substituted. Post-game, he donned protective gear and hobbled to participate in the celebration. With the Division Series approaching, Freeman opened up about his recovery progress during an interview.
“They said I’d usually need to be on the injured list for four to six weeks, but I plan to be back on the field this week,” Freeman shared. This was his first experience with an ankle sprain, and he noted that the swelling has significantly decreased over the past week. While he does feel a slight limitation in some movements—such as when he has to slow down while running—he doesn’t believe this will hinder his ability to compete.
Concerns have been raised about whether playing through injury could exacerbate his condition, but he addressed those worries directly: “In a game, things happen. I believe my ankle is stable enough for me to hit.”
Dodgers manager Dave Roberts also mentioned that Freeman has a chance to be included in the starting lineup for Game 1, but a final decision won’t be made until the 5th.
