Steve Webb
LOS ANGELES, CA — Freddie Freeman made an emotional return to the Dodgers on Monday night, greeted with a sustained ovation during his first at-bat. Reflecting on the moment, Freeman shared how much it meant to him. “Right when my walkout song started to play, I could hear the crowd getting louder and louder. It means a lot,” he said. “The Phillies were respectful of that situation as well. I wasn’t expecting it, but I very much appreciated it from the Dodgers fans.”
Freeman, who has been with the Dodgers for three years, spoke about the support he has received from the fans and how it has impacted him and his family during tough times. “These three years that I’ve been here, it’s hard to put into words what the Dodgers fans have meant to us and our family,” he shared. “They made it really hard to hit in that first at-bat, but that’s a good thing. It was one of the most pleasant strikeouts I’ve ever had in my big-league career.”
During the interview, Freeman got emotional when he mentioned seeing his father and stepmother in the front row. “I was doing okay tipping my hat, and then my dad was sitting in the first row with my stepmom. He was choked up, and that’s what really got me going,” he said. “I’m just so thankful.”
Freeman also touched on the outpouring of support from the larger baseball community, particularly mentioning Bryce Harper. “Bryce probably texted me at least four times during the nine days, checking in. The whole Phillies team was very nice,” he said. Freeman expressed his gratitude for the prayers and support for his son, Max, who is on the path to recovery after suffering a bout of Guillane-Barre syndrome.
The emotional return culminated in a win for the Dodgers, which Freeman described as a relief. “I’m kind of glad it’s over. I’m tired and worn out. It’s been an emotional day,” he admitted. “But when you win the game, it’s all worth it. It just reminds me of how beautiful this game is and why I love it so much.”
Freeman’s return was a poignant reminder of the strong bond between the players and fans, showcasing the impact of community support in challenging times.
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