Steve Webb
LOS ANGELES, CA — The Dodgers will be without first baseman Freddie Freeman for Monday’s game against the Seattle Mariners due to a finger injury that also kept him out of Sunday’s 2-1 victory over the Cardinals. Manager Dave Roberts revealed Freeman is unable to grip a bat because of the pain and will undergo further scans in Los Angeles. Freeman’s availability remains uncertain, and he could miss several more games.
Freeman was injured while fielding a ground ball during Saturday’s 5-2 loss, which led to his departure in the eighth inning. “The X-rays were negative,” Roberts told reporters at the time. “It’s day to day. I’m hoping he’s in there tomorrow. I’m sure he’s going to do everything he can to play, but if not, then we’ll just kind of read and react.”
It turns out that Roberts’ initial assessment may have been too optimistic, as it looks like Freeman may even need to a short stint on the IL while he recovers from the injury.
In Freeman’s absence, the Dodgers plan to activate Max Muncy and Tommy Edman on Monday. Muncy, who has been sidelined with a right oblique strain since May, is expected to fill in at first base. Muncy’s veteran presence and power could provide a needed boost as the Dodgers await Freeman’s return. He is slashing just .223/.323/.475 with nine home runs and 28 RBI in 40 games this season and his power bat will be a welcome addition to the sometimes anemic back half of the batting order.
The Dodgers, who are returning home after a 4-3 road trip to Milwaukee and St. Louis, are attempting to maintain their lead in the National League West with the San Diego Padres and Arizona Diamondbacks closing in. San Diego is just three games back, while Arizona trails by four.
Have you subscribed to the Bleed Los Podcast YouTube channel? Be sure to ring the notification bell to watch player interviews, participate in shows & promotions, and stay up to date on all Dodgers news and rumors!
