Dodgers Facing Decision After Freddie Freeman News

Now, Los Angeles could be facing a concern involving superstar first basemanFreddie Freeman. According to Dodger Talk host David Vassegh, Roberts revealed that the 36-year-old nine-time All-Star has been playing under the weather recently. This update could leave the Dodgers with a decision to make on how to manage Freeman’s workload moving forward. 

“Dave Roberts said Freddie Freeman has been playing under the weather the last couple days,” Vassegh shared on X. 

If Freeman’s illness continues throughout the Padres series, the Dodgers may choose to give him a short break while he recovers. Freeman has had a slow season compared to his usual standards, but he has remained an integral piece of the Dodgers lineup, hitting .254 with an OPS of .737 and four home runs. While the exact date he became ill is unknown, the former NL MVP and the 2024 World Series MVP has not recorded a hit since May 13 against the San Francisco Giants. 

One possible option for Los Angeles could be to give 25-year-old top prospect Dalton Rushing an opportunity at first base while Freeman recovers. In 23 games this season, Rushing is batting .260 with a .925 OPS while hitting seven home runs. Rushing has primarily developed as a catcher throughout his young career, but he also receives opportunities at first base in an effort to increase his versatility. 

With the Dodgers currently in the middle of an important divisional series against San Diego, Roberts and the organization may soon need to determine whether giving Freeman a short break would be the best long-term decision.