Freeman Sits Out Game 4 Due to Lingering Ankle Injury
The Los Angeles Dodgers are taking a cautious approach with their star first baseman, Freddie Freeman, as he continues to battle a nagging ankle injury. Freeman, a former MVP and eight-time All-Star, will not be in the starting lineup for Game 4 of the National League Championship Series against the New York Mets.
A Painful Postseason
Freeman has played in seven of the Dodgers’ eight games this postseason, despite badly spraining his right ankle on September 26 against San Diego. While he’s managed to collect seven hits, all singles, in 27 at-bats, it’s clear that the injury is still affecting his performance. The typically power-hitting Freeman has been limited to singles, a far cry from his usual explosive offense.
Lineup Shuffle
With left-hander Jose Quintana taking the mound for the Mets, the Dodgers have opted for a mostly right-handed lineup. Teoscar Hernandez will slide into the No. 3 hole, typically occupied by Freeman, while Kiké Hernández will move to third base, and Max Muncy will shift across the diamond to fill Freeman’s spot at first.
Inspiring His Teammates
Despite his struggles, Freeman’s dedication to playing through pain has inspired his teammates. “He’s in a lot of pain out there,” said Los Angeles catcher Will Smith. “You can see it when he’s running and all that. But he’s inspiring us as players, as a teammate. Willing to put his body on the line. It’s impressive.”
Dodgers Lead Series 2-1
The Dodgers head into Game 4 with a 2-1 lead in the best-of-seven series, following an 8-0 victory in Game 3 on Wednesday night. Freeman’s absence will undoubtedly be felt, but his teammates are confident he’ll be back in the lineup soon. As Smith put it, “I know he’s back in there tomorrow.”
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