Los Angeles Dodgers first baseman Freddie Freeman left Sunday’s 6-5 loss to the Milwaukee Brewers after an unfortunate hit-by-pitch. Brewers pitcher Jose Quintana drilled Freeman’s left wrist with an 88 mph sinker, forcing him out of the game and sending a wave of concern through Dodger Stadium.
Initial X-rays came back negative, showing just a contusion. Still, with the Dodgers’ playoff hopes hanging in the balance, fans and analysts can’t help but worry about how quickly Freeman will bounce back.
Freddie Freeman’s Injury: A Close Call for the Dodgers
Manager Dave Roberts called the moment tense, and that’s putting it lightly. The Dodgers have enough on their plate already, and Freeman’s value—both at the plate and in the field—can’t really be replaced.
Freeman tried to check his swing in the sixth when Quintana’s pitch tailed inside. He got hit, grimaced, and walked straight to the dugout, stopping only to chat with Roberts and the medical staff before disappearing down the tunnel for tests.
Doctors didn’t find fractures, but his history with that wrist—a fracture back in 2017—made the whole thing feel a bit too familiar. The timing couldn’t have been worse.
Freeman’s Historical Resilience and the Impact on the Dodgers
Freeman almost never leaves games, which says a lot about how much this one rattled the team. After he exited, Hyeseong Kim pinch-ran, and Miguel Rojas took over at first base.
Roberts didn’t sugarcoat it. Losing Freeman for any stretch would put the Dodgers in a tough spot as they try to lock in their postseason run.
Freeman will get checked out again on Monday. Everyone’s waiting to see if he’ll need time off or if he’ll be back in the lineup right away.
No one’s saying it out loud, but the Dodgers depend on him in just about every way—offensively, defensively, and as a leader. The next evaluation feels like a make-or-break moment.
Why This Moment Matters for the 2023 Dodgers
Every game matters now, and Freeman’s health could tip the scales for the Dodgers. His bat drives the offense, and his leadership keeps the team steady when things get rocky.
He’s among the league leaders in several offensive stats this year. If he misses time, the Dodgers will really feel it.
The Ripple Effect of a Potential Absence
Without Freeman, the Dodgers face a few real headaches:
- Defensive adjustments: Miguel Rojas filled in on Sunday, but losing a Gold Glove-caliber first baseman changes the whole infield dynamic.
- Offensive void: Freeman’s consistency at the plate is a huge part of the Dodgers’ run production. Take him out, and the lineup suddenly looks a lot thinner.
- Leadership gap: He’s more than just numbers. Freeman’s presence calms the clubhouse, especially when the pressure cranks up in September.
For a team with sky-high expectations, even a minor setback can feel huge. Freeman’s quick return would be a big relief, no question.
Looking Ahead: Day-to-Day, But Optimistic
Thankfully, it’s not the worst-case scenario. No fracture, no torn ligaments—just a bruise, and Freeman’s considered day-to-day.
Monday’s follow-up will say a lot. There’s cautious optimism that he’ll be back soon, maybe even before anyone has time to panic.
The Dodgers are still in playoff position, but every edge matters now. Having Freeman in the lineup keeps this team dangerous and keeps fans believing that another October run is in reach.
Final Thoughts
Freddie Freeman’s wrist contusion really shows just how quickly things can change in baseball. One minute, you’ve got everything going your way, and the next, it’s all up in the air.
The Dodgers have to take it slow with him now. They’ve got to make sure Freeman gets the right care and doesn’t rush back too soon.
For now, fans can breathe a little easier. Their star first baseman managed to avoid something much worse.
Honestly, let’s hope his leadership and that sweet swing aren’t missing from the lineup too long. Heading into the final stretch, keeping guys like Freeman healthy is everything for a team chasing a title.
Here is the source article for this story: Dodgers’ Freeman hit by pitch on left wrist, exits
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