When the Los Angeles Dodgers signed Freddie Freeman to a six-year, $162 million contract, they not only added a perennial All-Star to the organization but another active member in the community.
Freeman’s impact in his first season with the Dodgers has extended into the clubhouse and beyond, and that played a part in being voted the winner of the 17th annual Roberto Clemente Award.
“Very meaningful. Anytime you get voted any kind of award by your own teammates and staff, it’s very meaningful,” Freeman said of receiving the honor.
“I’ve tried to make the most of my first year here and try to impact where I can. For this to be awarded to me, stand in front of these guys and give a speech, it means a lot. It means a lot that they view me as that. I’m just happy to be here.”
The 33-year-old was voted the distinguished Roy Campanella Award winner by all Dodgers uniformed personnel (players and coaches), signifying praise from his most-valued peers for contributions to the storied organization both on and off the field.
Freeman, who is a National League MVP candidate, joins Clayton Kershaw (2013-2014), Justin Turner (2017, 2019-2020), and Chris Taylor (2021), as active Dodgers who have received the award honoring the late Hall of Fame catcher.
Freeman joined Rafael Furcal (2006) and Jame Carroll (2010) as the only first-year Dodgers to win it.
Freddie Freeman looking to win NL batting title
Having created some separation from Trea Turner for the MLB lead in hits, Freeman is locked in a tight battle with
New York Mets utilityman Jeff McNeil for the NL batting title.
Turner ran away with the batting crown last season.
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