Freddie Freeman signs six-year, $162M deal with Dodgers

It was already clear that Freddie Freeman wasn't returning to the Braves; all we were waiting to learn was which big market team he'd land with instead.

Now, he's heading west — and coming home in the process.

Freeman has agreed to terms on a six-year contract with the Dodgers, per ESPN's Kiley McDaniel and Jeff Passan. The deal is reportedly worth $162 million.

It's a homecoming for Freeman, who grew up in Southern California. It also is a chance for him to join what instantly becomes the best offense in baseball, one that features seemingly countless All-Stars and two former MVPs in Mookie Betts and Cody Bellinger in addition to Freeman, who won the NL MVP in 2020.

Freeman figures to slot in at first base, though with the universal DH passing through, he could see time at designated hitter as well. He'll likely step right into a top-of-the-order role, anchoring the Los Angeles offense with Betts, Trea Turner, Max Muncy, and more.

It was widely believed that Freeman would be one of the first major dominoes to fall in post-lockout free agency, but he ended up taking his time. So much so that the Braves — his former team who seemed to be priced out of a bidding war — made a trade for another star first baseman in Matt Olson.

Freeman will still forever be a legend in Atlanta, as after 12 seasons he finally helped deliver a World Series title to the city last season. Over those 12 years, Freeman hit .295/.384/.509, clubbed 271 homers and logged 941 RBIs, good for five All-Star selections and three Silver Slugger awards.