In a surprising turn of events, the Los Angeles Dodgers may be without their star first baseman Freddie Freeman for Game 6 of the National League Championship Series against the New York Mets. The eight-time All-Star and former NL MVP has been battling a severe ankle sprain suffered in late September, and it appears the injury is still impacting his performance at the plate.
Freeman’s Struggles at the Plate
Since returning to the lineup after missing Game 4, Freeman has gone hitless in five at-bats, striking out twice in the Dodgers’ Game 5 loss. His postseason numbers have been lackluster, hitting just .219 with no extra-base hits in 33 plate appearances.
I’m going to have a conversation with him (Saturday). But I do think that his swing is not right. I’m certain it’s the ankle.
Dodgers Manager Dave Roberts
Potential Lineup Changes
If Freeman sits out Game 6, the Dodgers will likely shift Max Muncy from third base to first, move Kiké Hernández from center field to third, and start Andy Pages in center. Pages homered twice in the Dodgers’ Game 5 loss, providing a spark to the lineup.
The Road Ahead
Despite the potential absence of their offensive catalyst, the Dodgers still hold a 3-2 series lead over the Mets. A win in Game 6 at Dodger Stadium would propel them to the World Series for the fourth time in six years. However, a loss would send the series back to New York for a decisive Game 7.
Freeman’s ankle injury has clearly hindered his performance this postseason, and his status for the remainder of the NLCS remains uncertain. The Dodgers will need their other stars, such as Mookie Betts, Trea Turner, and Will Smith, to step up in his potential absence.
A Resilient Team
Throughout the regular season and playoffs, the Dodgers have demonstrated their depth and ability to overcome adversity. They’ll need to rely on that resilience once again as they look to close out the Mets and secure a place in the Fall Classic.
As first pitch approaches, all eyes will be on the Dodgers’ lineup card, waiting to see if Freeman’s name is penciled in or if the team will be forced to proceed without their star first baseman. Regardless of the outcome, this NLCS has proven to be a thrilling battle between two of the National League’s powerhouse teams, with drama unfolding both on and off the field.
