The Los Angeles Dodgers concluded their regular season without star first baseman Freddie Freeman due to a sprained ankle sustained in a game against the San Diego Padres on September 26.
At the time of his injury, Freeman was advised that recovery could take 4 to 6 weeks.
#Dodgers Freddie Freeman announced his intent to play tomorrow, despite being told that his ankle sprain typically requires 4-6 weeks on the injured list. “I’m going to try to do it in a week.”
— Bill Plunkett (@billplunkettocr) October 5, 2024
Just ten days later, Freeman not only made the Dodgers’ roster for the National League Division Series against the Padres but also landed a spot in the starting lineup.
He was a surprise early addition for Game 1 against Padres’ pitcher Dylan Cease, turning what seemed like a season-ending injury into a chance for postseason play.
Freddie Freeman just told reporters as he walked off the field, “I wish I had an answer” on if he’ll play today. He mentioned still needing to hit in the cage https://t.co/QGeHG8e97F
— Jack Harris (@ByJackHarris) October 5, 2024
Freeman will bat third and play first base. He was named an All-Star for the eighth time this season, boasting impressive stats with 22 home runs and 89 RBIs, hitting .282/.378/.476 for the NL West champions.
This year’s matchup is tense as the Padres (93-69) previously eliminated the Dodgers (98-64) from the NLDS two years ago, and San Diego finished strong against LA in the regular season, winning 8 of 13 encounters.
Sean M. Haffey/Getty Images
The Dodgers have faced numerous injuries this season. Freeman’s ankle isn’t the only concern; shortstop Miguel Rojas has been dealing with a torn left adductor muscle, yet he will also play in Game 1.
On the pitching front, Clayton Kershaw’s postseason availability seemed bleak as he dealt with a bone spur in his left big toe, ultimately leading to his exclusion from the playoff roster.
More news: Dodgers News: LA Leaves Clayton Kershaw Off NLDS Roster
Unfortunately, the Padres suffered a setback as well. Pitcher Joe Musgrove had to exit Game 2 of their Wild Card series against the Braves early with an elbow injury, and he has now been ruled out for the NLDS—and likely all of 2025—due to the need for Tommy John surgery.
More news: MLB Playoffs: Padres Pitcher to Have Season-Ending Surgery
Though Freeman’s ankle isn’t in perfect shape, his determination to play could be a game-changer for the Dodgers. Only time will tell if his rushed return was the right call.