Dodgers News: Freeman's Rare Absence Highlights Dodgers' Lineup Shuffle

Dodgers News: Freddie Freeman, the Dodgers' stalwart first baseman, was notably absent from Tuesday’s lineup, as the team looks to manage his fractured finger. Dodgers manager Dave Roberts announced at Dodger Stadium that Freeman's rest is crucial to prevent any further complications. After sustaining the injury on August 17 during a game against the St. Louis Cardinals, Freeman's absence marks a strategic move by Roberts to ensure the injury does not linger.

Freddie Freeman’s rare day off came on Tuesday as the Dodgers faced off against the Baltimore Orioles, following Monday’s off-day. This break aims to alleviate the pain from Freeman’s fractured middle finger, an injury he first suffered while trying to field a ground ball. Despite initially returning to play through the discomfort, Freeman’s continued health is a priority for the Dodgers.

Manager Dave Roberts expressed concern over the injury's potential to worsen. “We don’t want this thing to linger,” Roberts told reporters , including Eric Stephen of TrueBlue LA. “If we can get it to calm down, we’ll be in a better spot.” This cautious approach has led to Freeman being held out of the lineup for a few days to ensure a full recovery.

In Freeman’s absence, the Dodgers have shuffled their lineup, moving outfielder Teoscar Hernández to the third spot, following Shohei Ohtani and Mookie Betts. Additionally, Kiké Hernández stepped in at first base, marking only his second start there this season.

Although there are no current plans to place Freeman on the injured list, the Dodgers are making strategic adjustments. Freeman’s previous absence due to family matters, including his son Max’s battle with Guillain-Barré Syndrome, saw him miss eight games. He returned to the Dodgers on August 5, following Max’s improvement.

Freeman, now in his third season with the Dodgers after signing a six-year, $162 million deal in March 2022, has been a significant contributor this season. With a batting average of .284, along with 17 home runs and 73 RBIs, he ranks third on the team in several key statistical categories.

The Dodgers have recently seen the return of other key players like Mookie Betts and Max Muncy, who had been recovering from their own injuries. As the team aims to maintain a three-game lead in the National League West, having a fully healthy roster for the playoffs is crucial.

Freeman’s rest and the subsequent lineup changes reflect the Dodgers’ strategic approach as they head into the final stretch of the regular season. While he is not expected to be placed on the injured list, the team’s decision to rest him underscores the importance of managing player health in the lead-up to the postseason.

In summary, Freddie Freeman’s temporary absence from the Dodgers' lineup is a precautionary measure aimed at ensuring his fractured finger heals properly. With the Dodgers adjusting their lineup and focusing on player health, the team is positioned to capitalize on their current lead in the National League West. Freeman’s return will be eagerly anticipated as the Dodgers aim to enter the playoffs with their key players fully operational.