In a Thursday interview with Katie Woo of The Athletic, Freeman discussed his desire to remain with the Dodgers while recognizing the realities of professional baseball. “I would love to stay here, but I would not want to be here if I’m hindering things,” he said.

After five seasons with the Dodgers, Freeman has already cemented his place in franchise history, winning a World Series MVP and earning multiple All-Star nods. Yet, despite his accomplishments, the veteran acknowledges that his continued stay depends on performance.

Freeman’s performance over the past two seasons hasn’t matched his 2023 campaign, when he finished third in MVP voting. Still, maintaining a baseline level of production makes it hard to imagine the Dodgers moving on from the veteran first baseman.

Freeman faces big year to prove longevity

Freeman openly admitted that this season is crucial to demonstrate he still has plenty left in the tank. With the Dodgers facing the Arizona Diamondbacks in their season opener, he sees the year as an opportunity to validate his value and reassure the front office of his continued contribution on the field.

Balancing desire with reality

While Freeman wants to finish his career in Los Angeles, he remains realistic about the team’s perspective. The tension between personal goals and organizational priorities is central to his situation, making 2026 a pivotal year for the Dodgers and one of baseball’s modern legends

Following his debut appearance in spring training with the Dodgers, Freeman was questioned by the media about his initial performance, offering valuable insights after a matchup with the Cleveland Guardians.

“It’s nice to be able to hit a ball to left-center already… that’s a good sign,” Freeman reflected to reporters. His first hit of the preseason suggests he’s in fine form for the challenges that lie ahead.

While Yoshinobu Yamamoto’s Cy Young ambitions are unmistakable following his World Series MVP honors, Freeman is expected to generate significant buzz as the MLB season approaches, with the Dodgers eyeing another title defense in 2026.

Freeman’s performance against the Guardians

Though Freeman has little to prove to Dodgers fans, he demonstrates readiness for the upcoming season as Los Angeles prepares to defend its championship title in 2026.

These were his stats in the game against the Guardians:

• At-Bats: 2
• Hits: 1
• Doubles: 1
• RBIs: 2
• Runs: 1
• Exit Velocity: 103.7 mph

With several key players returning to the Dodgers following the World Baseball Classic in March, Los Angeles is preparing to ardently defend its title in the upcoming season.

Before the first preseason game, media outlets questioned Freeman about his availability for the Diamondbacks game. Freeman shared his spring training debut date, stating, “I won’t play until Tuesday… I feel good, I feel ready to go, my body feels great, so I’m looking forward to it.”

Freeman’s comments have heightened expectations regarding the lineup that manager Dave Roberts will select for the upcoming game. Fans are eager to see performances from stars like Shohei Ohtani, Kyle Tucker, and Edwin Diaz, among others.

Meanwhile, Kyle Tucker has made it clear he intends to play a pivotal role this season, showcasing the talent that helped the Houston Astros to the 2022 World Series title. However, Roberts faces a challenging decision in crafting the Opening Day lineup, thanks to the team’s considerable depth.

Freeman’s perspective on finishing his career with the Dodgers

The Dodgers‘ current roster is bolstered by crucial players from their last two World Series triumphs. Following Clayton Kershaw’s retirement, his talent and experience greatly benefited the team. Similarly, Freeman expresses a desire to conclude his career with the Dodgers.

“I love being here. I’m from Southern California, and I’ve had a great time with the fans. I’ve got two years left, but Andrew and everyone knows I love being here,” Freeman stated when asked about retiring as a Dodger.

The Dodgers’ chances of keeping Freeman hinge on a potential contract extension. Currently signed through 2027, any extension would depend on the developments in the coming seasons.

Freeman’s stats from last season with the Dodgers

Freeman is a key player for the Dodgers. Over four years with the team, he has won two World Series titles and remains crucial to the possibility of a three-peat. His performance at first base has been nothing short of dependable.

Here are his stats from the past season:

• Games Played: 147
• Batting Average: .295
• Home Runs: 24
• RBIs: 90
• Hits: 164
• OPS: .869
• Stolen Bases: 6
• WAR: 3.5

Kershaw could not have dreamed of a better ending than the one he had, as in his final game as a professional, he was crowned World Series champion for the third time in his career. He will undoubtedly be missed by Dodgers Nation, and in a video published by the franchise on their official X (formerly Twitter) account, his former teammates sent heartfelt farewell messages.

“Alright 22, you know, it’s been six years, bro,” Betts said. “That’s a long time to play with someone like you. You have shown me what being a Dodger is supposed to look like. So, I thank you for that. I thank you for just your hard work, your blood, sweat and tears. I thank you for being here, winning two World Series and on our way to another one”.

“And I just hope everything goes your way, bro. You’ve done it the right way. You treat everybody in a beautiful manner. And I just thank you for being a great example… Good luck in your retirement and I’ll see you on the links soon,” he added.

Freddie Freeman, who faced Kershaw with the Atlanta Braves and is 8-25 with a homer and 2 RBIs in 28 plate appearances against him in his career, won two World Series with Clayton as a teammate and spoke of the great honor of having been able to share the field with him.

“Hey Clayton, first off I just want to say congratulations on a first ballot Hall of Fame career that you’ve had,” Freeman noted. “It’s been an honor to be on the field with you, compete against you, just everything. You’re the epitome of what a great baseball player is. And even better person”.

“I’m going to miss, you know, your singing voice in the weight room. Shirtless Sundays. Being in the tube with you 40,000 feet up in the air, miss those flights. Just miss you. You know, everything that you bring to the Dodgers organization over your career, it’s been an honor to be your teammate,” Freeman concluded.

Kershaw turned down offer to join Dodgers front office

Having spent his entire career with the Dodgers, Kershaw will always be linked to the organization, and it would come as no surprise if he eventually ends up working within the franchise. However, despite receiving an offer to continue working with the Dodgers, Kershaw decided to turn it down, as the three-time World Series Champion wants to dedicate more time to his family.

“In the waning days of Kershaw’s career, Dodgers president of baseball operations Andrew Friedman approached him with an offer to stick around as a member of the baseball operations department. Kershaw was flattered by the offer. ‘I don’t think I have any full-time jobs in my future,’ he said. ‘Except full-time dad,’” Andy McCullough of The Athletic reported.

It is a logical decision for Kershaw, who along with his wife, Ellen, has four children with a fifth on the way. In the future, it wouldn’t be far-fetched for him to join the Dodgers’ front office in a full-time role or as a special advisor; it’s simply that now is not the right time to do so.

While Freeman’s heroics stole the spotlight, Shohei Ohtani’s performance underlined why he remains one of the game’s most unstoppable forces. Ohtani reached base nine times, hit four extra-base hits, and was intentionally walked four times — feats rarely seen in postseason history. His combination of power and patience kept the Blue Jays off balance all night.

The Dodgers’ bullpen, which saw Clayton Kershaw step in as a reliever, was just as crucial, preserving leads and keeping Toronto’s explosive lineup from taking control. From the first pitch to Freeman’s final swing, the game delivered drama, tension, and record-setting moments that will be remembered for years.

Ohtani’s message

On the eve of his Game 4 start, Ohtani made it clear what mattered most. “What matters the most is that we won,” he said, according to MLB.com. “What I accomplished today is in the context of this game, and what matters the most is we flip the page and play the next one.”

Ohtani’s historic night came amidst chaos on the bases, with six runners thrown out, and moments of rare confusion, including a peculiar pickoff involving Bo Bichette and Daulton Varsho. Despite the unusual plays and constant pressure, Ohtani maintained focus, proving that his value extends far beyond his bat.

Freeman delivers again in marathon showdown

Freeman, already making history with multiple World Series walk-off homers, was the perfect closer for the epic affair. “This one took a little longer, but this game was incredible,” he said. “Our bullpen was absolutely incredible. Yeah, Will Klein, absolutely incredible.”

Los Angeles battled through multiple deficits, with Ohtani and Teoscar Hernandez hitting early solo homers, while Toronto’s Alejandro Kirk and Vladimir Guerrero Jr. briefly turned the tide. Freeman’s final swing, however, ensured the Dodgers took a 2–1 lead in the series, keeping them firmly in control of the Fall Classic.

Game 4 implications

With Ohtani scheduled to pitch in Game 4, the Dodgers hope to leverage his dominance into a series-clinching advantage. Historically, the team winning Game 3 after a 1–1 series tie has gone on to win the series roughly 70% of the time. Los Angeles aims to make history once more as it faces Toronto in what promises to be another intense matchup.

According to information reported by The Athletic, Freeman is dealing with a minor ankle ‘injury,’ which had recently undergone surgery. The incident reportedly happened at his home when he tweaked his ankle while stepping into the shower.

So far, there is no additional information about Freeman’s ankle, but it’s concerning for the Dodgers as they prepare to start their second series of the season, this time against the Braves, without one of their most important players. This is especially worrying given how critical it is to take extra care of that ankle.

Freeman’s ankle limited him during the 2024 season, but the Dodgers still benefited from his determination to return and contribute. He tallied 153 hits, 81 runs (his first time in four years producing fewer than 100), and 22 home runs.

Who could replace Freeman at first base?

In Game 1 against the Braves, Freeman’s replacement was Kiké Hernández, who performed well overall. He made 4 at-bats, delivering a run, a hit, an RBI, and a home run for a .167 batting average. His efforts helped the Dodgers secure a 6-1 victory over the Braves.

What do the Dodgers lose if Freeman can’t return?

The Dodgers stand to lose a great deal if Freeman can’t return for a while. For 2025, he’s projected to log nearly 600 plate appearances with over 152 hits, 85 runs, at least 20 home runs, 79 RBIs, and a .296 batting average. Losing a player like Freeman would mean losing a significant contributor capable of helping the team reach the postseason.

Freddie Freeman set a World Series record during the Los Angeles Dodgers’ Game 4 loss to the New York Yankees. This wasn’t just any record; it was his sixth consecutive home run, an extraordinary achievement that may be tough to break.

The home run came in the top of the 1st inning, surprising Yankees fans, who were stunned into silence as Freeman’s majestic sixth straight home run landed in the right-field stands. The ball was caught by Marcus Kline, who promptly threw it back onto the field.

Speaking with the New York Post over the phone, Kline explained why he made the decision, saying, “People are yelling, everyone is like anxious, and all of a sudden I’m like—I was with my best buddy and business partner—if we threw this ball back, we can get the crowd back into this, and there was a chant in the bleachers of ‘Throw it back! Throw it back!’”

After throwing the ball back, Kline said he had no regrets. Despite knowing the ball could have high monetary value, he felt the moment was more important for his team. “Some people came up later and mentioned the significance of that ball, the history, and I’m like, ‘No regrets.’ This is bigger than money.”

What Could Freeman’s Home Run Ball Be Worth?

Estimates suggest the ball could have been worth around $100,000, as Shohei Ohtani’s recent milestone ball—marking his entry into the elite 50 homers and steals club—sold for over $4 million. Freeman’s record-setting ball might have fetched a significant amount as well.

Kline, who works in finance, told the New York Post he acted on pure instinct, saying, “It’s not about the money. This is about our team, our city. If you’re going to sit in the bleachers, you’ve got to be part of the bleachers, and that’s New York City energy at its finest.”

After the unexpected result in Game 4, following three tightly contested matches, Dodgers fans are optimistic that Wednesday’s outcome will end their four-year wait to lift the Commissioner’s Trophy. Freeman seems poised to be the player to deliver that win.

Following Tuesday’s game, LeBron posted a message of praise for Freeman on his X account: “Freddy Freeman WE ARE NOT WORTHY.” The Dodgers star has indeed been in exceptional form this postseason, performing consistently through all four World Series games.

Fans, however, quickly pointed out a small error in LeBron’s message, noting he misspelled Freeman’s name. LeBron humorously responded: “*Freddie! Anyways, you’re a *** STUD! Finish y’all breakfast!”

Freeman’s World Series performance

Dodgers’ head coach has kept Freeman in the starting lineup against the Yankees, and his batting stats have made him a critical asset in the Dodgers’ quest for the title.

Over the past four games of this World Series, Freeman has stepped up to the plate 21 times, achieving five hits and scoring four runs, each one from a home run in every game. These impressive stats have certainly caught the Yankees’ attention as they strategize to contain the Dodgers’ star.

Dodgers are counting on Freeman

If any player can make a difference in Game 5, it’s Freeman. Not only do his stats speak for themselves, but Freeman also exudes confidence, which has inspired the team throughout the series. Speaking to the media, he emphasized the trust and unity within the team, celebrating every successful play.

With Shohei Ohtani unfortunately sidelined due to injury, the Dodgers are relying on other key contributors who have proven effective throughout the MLB season. Even without Ohtani, Freeman’s impact could be decisive in helping the Dodgers claim their first title in four years.

Heading into Game 5, fans on both sides are eager to see how this series unfolds. Initially, many thought the Dodgers had the upper hand after Game 3. Now, with the series at 3-1, the Yankees are confident in their ability to extend the series and end their 15-year championship drought.

Despite the Yankees’ strong performance at home, the Dodgers have Freddie Freeman, who shared his perspective on the team’s approach: “Hopefully, Jack [Flaherty] can keep them calm, and we score more runs than they do.”

Pitching could prove decisive on Wednesday, with the Dodgers counting on Jack Flaherty to contain hitters like Aaron Judge, Juan Soto, Anthony Volpe, Gleyber Torres, among other players.

Flaherty’s postseason performance

Freeman has faith in his teammates and believes Flaherty could be key to a Game 5 win. The stats back up Freeman’s confidence, given Flaherty’s recent performances in the postseason.

Flaherty has faced the New York Mets twice, the San Diego Padres twice, and the Yankees once in Game 1. Over these five outings, he’s averaged 5 innings, allowing 24 hits, 17 runs (including one scoreless game), 10 walks, and 19 strikeouts.

After five days of rest, Flaherty’s performance could be a crucial asset for the Dodgers in Game 5. He has fond memories of Game 1 against the Yankees, where he recorded 6 strikeouts, allowed 5 hits and 2 runs, and conceded just one home run.

Freeman’s respect for the Yankees

Freeman remains realistic about the quality of their opponents in the World Series, acknowledging the Yankees’ historic and competitive nature: “I’m not surprised. They’re in the World Series. They’re one of the best teams in the game.”

The stage is set for fans to enjoy an exciting showdown. This could be the Dodgers’ moment to claim the title, or it could be the Yankees’ chance to rally, pushing for a comeback to capture the Commissioner’s Trophy after 15 years.

The Yankees, meanwhile, are in a tough spot. Down 3-0 in the series, they need a miracle to come back. Although they have talented players like Aaron Judge and Gerrit Cole, the task seems almost impossible.

Freddie Freeman has shown an incredible ability to excel in the most important moments. His home run in Game 3 was a watershed moment that has left the Yankees in a difficult situation.

Freeman, via Fox Sports, sent a clear warning to his rival Yankees ahead of Game 4 of the World Series: “One more win, that’s all I care about right now. I don’t care how it happens, I just want to get one more win.”

The Dodgers’ first baseman has combined power and patience at the plate, making him a constant threat to opposing pitchers. His ability to adapt to different situations and his knack for connecting hits at crucial moments have been fundamental to his team’s success.

Yankees manager Aaron Boone’s praise for Freeman

Yankees manager Aaron Boone has recognized Freeman’s excellent performance. “Obviously, we all know how great of a player Freddie Freeman is,” said Yankees manager Aaron Boone, according to MLB.com, “He’s getting off swings you’re typically used to seeing Freddie get off, where maybe that wasn’t happening in the previous rounds with the injury.”

Freeman’s teammate at the Dodgers have also praised his performance

Max Muncy highlighted Freeman’s determination and fighting spirit. “For a guy like Freddie, who doesn’t really need anything more to cement his legacy,” Muncy said, “this has been a pretty special run.”

With a potential MLB World Series title in sight, Freeman has proven to be an unstoppable force. His impact on the series has been significant, and the Dodgers are confident his leadership will lead them to glory.

Freeman has faced numerous challenges this season, including injuries and personal issues. This home run marks a milestone in the history of the World Series, as it is the first grand slam in history to end a game.

His home run in Game 1 of the World Series is a testament to his talent and his ability to shine in the biggest moments. This historic moment solidifies him as one of the best players for the team.

In response, manager Dave Roberts delivered a clear message about the player’s historic performance. “The game honors you, and when you do things the right way, you play the right way, you’re a good teammate, I just believe that the game honors you,” said Dodgers manager Dave Roberts to MLB.com. “Tonight, Freddie was honored.”

Freeman’s legacy with the Dodgers in MLB

Freddie Freeman‘s grand slam joins other iconic moments in Dodgers history, such as Kirk Gibson’s home run in 1988. This achievement reaffirms the Dodgers’ legacy as a franchise full of great moments and legendary players.

“When you get told you do something like that in this game that’s been around a very long time — I love the history of this game, to be a part of it, it’s special,” Freeman said. “I’ve been playing this game a long time, and to come up in those moments, you dream about those moments. Even when you’re 35 and have been in the league for 15 years, you want to be a part of those.”

When will Game 2 of the World Series between the Dodgers and Yankees be?

With this win, the Dodgers have taken a big step toward winning their eighth MLB World Series title. Freeman and his teammates are set to face the Game 2 challenge against the Yankees this Saturday, Oct. 26.