Freddie Freeman Downplays Boos From Braves Fans

Freddie Freeman continued to haunt his former team in the Los Angeles Dodgers’ 3-1 win over the Atlanta Braves in Game 3 of the National League Division Series on Tuesday night.

After being robbed of a potential two-run homer by Mauricio Dubón one inning earlier, Freeman hit a solo shot off Chris Sale in the top of the fourth to extend the Dodgers’ lead to 3-0. It was the 18th postseason home run of Freeman’s career and his fifth at Truist Park during the month of October.

Tuesday marked Freeman’s first playoff game at the ballpark as a visiting player. He is usually showered with cheers when he returns to Atlanta, but that wasn’t the case this time around as Freeman received scattered boos each time he stepped into the batter’s box.

“To be honest, I don’t really hear much out there. It’s just noise because it’s so loud,” Freeman said after the game.

Although he didn’t hear the boos, Freeman understands why Braves fans would give him a cold reception and isn’t holding it against them.

“I’ve got a gray uniform on. I expect boos. It’s OK,” Freeman said. “Like I’ve always said, I enjoyed my 12 years in this organization, the big leagues, 15 overall. It’s a great place to play. They pack the house out. I’ve had wonderful experiences with the white uniform on here, and I loved every second of it. I get it.

“This is a game. We’re trying to win the game. They want to win it for their team. When you get on the field, you really don’t really hear anything because it’s so loud. It’s just noise. I would be surprised if they cheered me in October. So it’s OK. It’s all love. I still love everybody here and I’m looking forward to tomorrow.”

Freeman’s comments are similar to those he made earlier about facing the Braves in the NLDS. The 10-time All-Star said he is treating the matchup like any other playoff series as a way to not let his personal history become a distraction.

In three games so far against the Braves, Freeman is 4-for-11 with two home runs, two RBI, three runs scored and two walks.

Dave Roberts praises Freddie Freeman

Manager Dave Roberts credited Freeman for tuning out the noise and helping the Dodgers win a pivotal Game 3 in Atlanta.

“It was great,” Roberts said of Freeman’s performance. “Not many people have success against Sale. And I thought Freddie took great at-bats. And I think he’s got him a couple times as far as homers. And Dubón made a great play on the one at-bat, and he finally got him on a sinker that was kind of in, off.

“But he just takes great at-bats. And no moment’s going to be too big for him. The home crowd certainly is rooting for their guys. But, yeah, it’s part of the game. But there’s still I’m sure a lot of love for Freddie.”