The Los Angeles Dodgers are in the midst of their longest road trip of the season, which includes a series against the Atlanta Braves that is a homecoming for Freddie Freeman.
The six-time All-Star signed with the Dodgers last year after spending 15 seasons in the Braves organization, including 12 on their Major League team. The first time Freeman made the trip to Truist Park as a member of the Dodgers was an emotional one, which included some tears.
Freeman received another standing ovation from Braves fans on Monday during the series opener, and overall he was happy to be back in Atlanta, via SportsNet LA:
“Much better. It’s a little bit different feelings coming into this one, but it’s good to be home. I got to spend the night at my house last night, so that was nice. And my dad drove me into the field today. First person I saw was Fred Stone, and that’s always a welcome for anyone who knows Fred Stone. It’s been good coming in here. Having Jason Heyward this time around has definitely been a lot nicer.”
Emotionally, Freeman also felt like he is in a much better place the second time playing at Truist Park as a visitor:
“I’m going to be honest with you, it’s a massive difference. Now it’s just all smiles coming in. Last year, I didn’t know what to feel going into it. I just let emotions go, and most everyone in here knows whatever happens, happens. I don’t care. I’m not going to control anything, that’s just what’s going to come out. This time, it’s been all smiles, so it’s been good. It’s been good to see a lot of guys.”
The 2020 National League MVP went 3-for-5 with two runs scored and three RBI in the series opener, including a go-ahead three-run homer in the fifth inning, which increased the Dodgers’ win probability by 27.6%.
The Dodgers went on to win the game 8-6 after going down by four runs in the first inning.
Freddie Freeman appreciated clubhouse toast
Last week, Freeman became the 155th player in MLB history to join the 300-home run club, which came on a grand slam against the St. Louis Cardinals in a losing effort.
Although the 33-year-old is not fond of reflecting on personal accomplishments in the moment, particularly when they occur in a loss, Freeman took one night to celebrate the achievement with his father and appreciated teammates giving him a toast in the clubhouse.
More must-reads: