Freddie Freeman – Los Angeles Dodgers Biography, Contract, Net Worth Information

Freddie Freeman has become one of baseball’s most reliable stars, holding down the Los Angeles Dodgers lineup with his big bat and smooth glove at first base. After spending almost his entire career with the Atlanta Braves and helping them clinch the 2021 World Series, Freeman signed a massive six-year, $162 million contract with the Dodgers. By 2025, Freeman’s net worth sits around $80 million, and he’s earning about $27 million per year in MLB salary.

He’s built his fortune on baseball earnings, endorsement deals, and some smart investments over a long, successful career. Freeman’s rise to the top of baseball is all about work ethic and, honestly, just a ton of raw talent. He’s managed to keep his batting average above .300 year after year, hitting for both power and average—pitchers definitely don’t look forward to seeing him in the box.

Freeman’s impact goes way beyond just numbers. He leads in the clubhouse and gives back off the field, which has really solidified his legacy as more than just a ballplayer. As Freeman keeps thriving with the Dodgers, his financial portfolio keeps growing right alongside his already impressive baseball résumé.

Early Life and Background

Freddie Freeman’s road to baseball stardom didn’t start with a contract. His early years shaped who he is—both as a person and as a player. Those days set the groundwork for the career that followed.

Family and Childhood

Freddie Charles Freeman was born on September 12, 1989, in Fountain Valley, California. He grew up with strong Canadian roots—both his parents, Fred and Rosemary, came from Canada. Thanks to that, he later got to represent Canada in international baseball.

Life hit hard when Freeman was just 10. He lost his mother to melanoma, and that tragedy really brought him closer to his dad, who became his biggest supporter and role model.

In Orange County, California, Freeman fell in love with baseball as a kid. His dad, who played college baseball, coached him and helped sharpen his skills.

Amateur Baseball Career

Freeman attended El Modena High School in Orange, California, and quickly made a name for himself as a top baseball prospect. He played both pitcher and first baseman, showing off his versatility.

By his senior year, Freeman had become one of the nation’s top high school baseball prospects. Scouts took notice of his powerful left-handed swing and his glove at first base.

The Atlanta Braves picked Freeman in the second round (78th overall) of the 2007 MLB Draft. At just 17, his dad had to sign his first pro contract, which came with a $409,500 signing bonus. That was the start of his professional journey.

He skipped college baseball and dove straight into the Braves’ minor league system, looking to develop his game at the next level.

Professional Career Beginnings

Freddie Freeman’s path to the majors started when the Atlanta Braves drafted him in 2007, laying the groundwork for what turned out to be a stellar career. He moved up the minor leagues quickly, showing off his bat and his defense at first base.

Draft and Minor Leagues

The Braves took Freeman in the second round (78th overall) of the 2007 MLB Draft out of El Modena High School. Just 17, he got a $409,500 bonus to skip Cal State Fullerton.

He made an immediate impact in the Braves’ farm system, batting .316 his first season in the Gulf Coast League. Next up was Class-A Rome in 2008, where he hit .278 with 18 homers.

His breakout came in 2009, splitting time between Advanced-A Myrtle Beach and Double-A Mississippi, batting .282 with 8 home runs. By 2010, Freeman was crushing it in Triple-A Gwinnett—.319 average, 18 homers, 87 RBIs. That year, he earned Braves’ Minor League Player of the Year honors.

MLB Debut and First Seasons

Freeman debuted in the majors on September 1, 2010, at just 20 years old—he was the youngest player in the National League at the time. He only appeared in 20 games that season and hit .167, but the Braves saw enough to make him their starting first baseman for 2011.

In his first full MLB season, Freeman proved the Braves right. He finished second in NL Rookie of the Year voting, batting .282 with 21 home runs and 76 RBIs in 2011. His left-handed swing and defense at first quickly made him a key part of the team.

By 2012, Freeman was a regular in Atlanta’s lineup, hitting .259 with 23 home runs. Then, in 2013, he really broke out—his first All-Star nod came after hitting .319 with 23 home runs and 109 RBIs, good enough for fifth in NL MVP voting.

Breakout Years and Career Highlights

Freddie Freeman’s climb to baseball stardom includes some incredible seasons, a bunch of All-Star selections, and awards that have cemented his spot among the best first basemen in the game.

Notable Seasons and Achievements

Freeman’s offensive game really took off in 2013, when he finished with a .319/.396/.501 slash line. He kept getting better, and his 2020 season was just wild: .341/.462/.640 line with a ton of power and plate discipline.

His career batting line—about .300/.393/.503—shows how rare it is to find someone who can hit for average, get on base, and still hit for power. Not many hitters combine those skills so well.

Freeman’s biggest team moment came in 2021, when he helped lead the Braves to a World Series win over the Houston Astros, then moved on to free agency and eventually the Dodgers.

All-Star Appearances

Freeman’s been picked for multiple All-Star teams, a clear sign of how much respect he’s earned from players, fans, and execs alike.

His first All-Star game came in 2013, which really put him on the map as one of the top first basemen. That selection validated all the hype around him.

He kept up the production, and All-Star nods became almost expected during his prime. Every appearance was a reminder not just of his stats, but of how much he meant to his teams and fans.

During All-Star week, Freeman always showed off his hitting on the big stage, whether as a Brave or a Dodger.

NL MVP and Other Awards

Freeman’s biggest individual honor came in 2020, when he won National League Most Valuable Player. In that short season, he just dominated NL pitching, both with his numbers and his clutch at-bats.

He’s also picked up several Silver Slugger Awards for being the best offensive first baseman. Those awards really highlight just how consistent he’s been.

On defense, Freeman’s no slouch. He’s brought home the Gold Glove (2018) and keeps his strikeouts low while still hitting plenty of homers—a rare combo these days.

Atlanta Braves Legacy

Freddie Freeman’s run with the Atlanta Braves really defined his career and locked in his place in franchise history. From 2010 to 2021, he went from rookie to the face of the team, thanks to his steady play, leadership, and community work.

Key Contributions

Freeman’s impact in Atlanta was about way more than stats. As a five-time All-Star with the Braves, he took home the NL MVP in 2020 after hitting .341 with 13 home runs.

His defense at first base got him a Gold Glove in 2018, and he hit over .300 six times as a Brave, topping 20 home runs in eight seasons.

He grabbed two Silver Sluggers (2019, 2020) and led the league with 120 runs scored in 2018. When the pressure was on, Freeman was the guy the team relied on.

He stuck with the Braves through some tough rebuilding years, providing the stability and leadership they needed.

World Series Victory

Freeman’s biggest moment with Atlanta came in 2021, when he helped the Braves win their first World Series title since 1995. He played a huge role all postseason.

During that run, Freeman hit a clutch go-ahead homer in Game 4 of the NLCS against the Dodgers, paving the way to the World Series. The Braves then took down the Houston Astros in six games.

Freeman batted .304 with two homers in the 2021 postseason. His first-inning home run in Game 6 against Houston helped seal the deal.

That championship was the perfect cap to Freeman’s 12 years with the Braves. Even after leaving for the Dodgers, his legacy in Atlanta was already secure.

Relationship With Fans and Teammates

Few players connected with Atlanta fans like Freeman did. His easygoing personality, community work, and on-field performance made him one of the city’s favorites.

Freeman led by example in the clubhouse, and teammates often pointed to his mentorship as a key to their own growth. His work ethic and steady presence set the tone for everyone.

He ran the “Freddie Freeman Baseball Camp” for local kids and raised money for children’s charities through his foundation. That kind of involvement made him even more popular around Atlanta.

When he returned to Atlanta as a Dodger in 2022, the crowd gave him a standing ovation that moved him to tears. The respect between Freeman and the city—where his net worth really took off—was obvious.

Departure From Atlanta and Free Agency

After the 2021 World Series win, Freddie Freeman surprised almost everyone by leaving the only MLB team he’d ever played for. Negotiations got complicated, and his exit led to one of the biggest free agent signings of the 2021-2022 offseason.

Free Agency Landscape

Freeman hit free agency after the 2021 championship as one of the top players on the market. He was coming off another strong year—.300 average, 31 home runs, 83 RBIs. His timing lined up with MLB’s labor dispute and lockout, which froze all deals from December 2021 until March 2022.

The lockout made everything more complicated and forced teams to move fast once it ended. Most people thought the Braves would re-sign their franchise leader right away, but reports said Atlanta only offered five years, while Freeman wanted six.

Several contenders jumped into the race for Freeman. The New York Yankees, Toronto Blue Jays, Boston Red Sox, and Los Angeles Dodgers all made serious pushes.

Bidding and Team Interests

Once the lockout ended in March 2022, the chase for Freeman really heated up. The Atlanta Braves made a bold move—they traded for Oakland Athletics first baseman Matt Olson and locked him in with an eight-year extension, which basically shut the door on Freeman’s 12-year run in Atlanta.

The Yankees and Blue Jays jumped in with strong offers. The New York Mets poked around too, but they decided to go in a different direction.

The Los Angeles Dodgers stepped up as the favorites, offering Freeman the six-year deal he wanted. On March 17, 2022, Freeman signed a six-year, $162 million contract with the Dodgers, paying him a cool $27 million per year.

This contract ranked among the biggest ever for a player over 30 and instantly made the Dodgers’ lineup even scarier. Braves fans had a tough time watching Freeman leave, especially after seeing him become such a huge part of the franchise.

Los Angeles Dodgers Era

After 12 seasons with the Braves, Freddie Freeman started a new chapter with the Dodgers in 2022. This shift shook up the National League and gave the Dodgers arguably the most complete first baseman in the game.

Signing Announcement and Reaction

The baseball world honestly didn’t see it coming when Freeman signed a six-year, $162 million contract with the Dodgers in March 2022. He’d just helped the Braves win the 2021 World Series, and a lot of people figured he’d finish his career in Atlanta.

Dodgers fans went wild over the news. The team’s stars welcomed him right away—Mookie Betts even said he was pumped to form what people started calling a “superteam.” With Freeman in the mix, the Dodgers’ lineup looked downright intimidating.

“I’m excited for this new journey with an organization committed to winning,” Freeman told reporters during his first press conference in LA. The Dodgers made it clear they weren’t planning to give up their grip on the National League West any time soon.

First Season Highlights

Freeman wasted no time living up to the hype in his first Dodgers season. Here’s what he did in 2022:

• Hit .325 (best in the National League)
• Smashed 21 home runs
• Drove in 100 runs
• Racked up 47 doubles
• Finished with a .918 OPS

On Opening Day, he went 2-for-3 with a double—just set the tone right away. He clicked with Max Muncy and Will Smith almost instantly, and his lefty swing fit Dodger Stadium perfectly.

Freeman kept flashing his glove at first base, steadying the infield after Corey Seager left. He gave manager Dave Roberts options in the lineup with his mix of power and average.

Impact on Team and League

Freeman changed the Dodgers’ lineup and the whole vibe in the clubhouse. His steady play and leadership helped the team stay sharp, even while guys like Cody Bellinger struggled to find their groove.

His arrival sent shockwaves across the league. Adding Freeman to a lineup with Betts—and later, Shohei Ohtani—turned the Dodgers into what some analysts called “baseball’s most dangerous offensive core.” That $162 million contract set a new standard for top-tier first basemen.

By 2025, Freeman’s net worth hit an estimated $80 million, thanks to his play and his marketability in LA. His consistency was a rock for the team, even when the pitching staff had its ups and downs.

Freddie Freeman’s Contract Details

Freeman’s move from Atlanta to Los Angeles in March 2022 came with a monster contract, and it definitely got people talking.

Six-Year Deal Terms

Freeman landed a six-year, $162 million deal with the Dodgers, running through 2027. He’ll make an average of $27 million a year, putting him up there among the highest-paid first basemen ever.

This contract topped his previous eight-year, $135 million deal with the Braves. Freeman signed at age 32, so he’ll be 37 when the deal wraps up.

The Dodgers structured the salary to pay him the same $27 million each season—a real sign they trust he’ll keep producing as he gets older.

Signing Bonus and Deferred Money

One thing that stands out about Freeman’s contract is the deferred money. The Dodgers decided to spread out some payments beyond the six years, a move that’s getting more common in MLB.

These deferred payments help the Dodgers with their payroll now, while still giving Freeman all his money. The exact details of his signing bonus haven’t really come out, but the structure works for both sides: Freeman gets long-term security, and the Dodgers keep some flexibility to chase other stars.

It’s a pretty smart way to handle a big-money deal, and it shows both Freeman’s reps and Dodgers management know their way around the business side of baseball.

Payroll and Luxury Tax Impact

Freeman’s contract structure definitely affects the Dodgers’ payroll and luxury tax. By deferring some of the $162 million, the team lowers the annual luxury tax impact.

MLB uses the average annual value (AAV) of a contract for luxury tax purposes, not the actual yearly salary. So with the deferred money, Freeman’s luxury tax number isn’t exactly $27 million per year.

The Dodgers have been willing to go over the luxury tax line lately, seeing it as the price of building a contender. Freeman’s deal fits right into their approach of paying top dollar for elite players.

This kind of contract shows just how much teams have to think about when balancing talent and long-term payroll under MLB’s financial rules.

Net Worth and Financial Overview

Freddie Freeman’s built up impressive wealth over his career, with a mix of big contracts and endorsement deals. His smart decisions and steady play have put him in baseball’s financial upper crust.

Current Net Worth Estimates

As of 2025, Freeman’s net worth sits around $80 million. That’s mostly from his MLB contracts, but he’s got other income streams too.

Together with his wife Chelsea, their family’s net worth is about $85 million. Chelsea adds to their wealth, but Freddie’s baseball earnings are the main driver.

He’s invested outside of baseball, though he keeps those details pretty private. Freeman’s careful with his money and has managed to grow his wealth year after year.

Career Earnings Analysis

The biggest chunk of Freeman’s fortune comes from his six-year, $162 million contract with the Dodgers. That deal pays him $27 million a year and pushed his career earnings way up.

Here’s how his income breaks down:

• Base Salary: $27 million per year
• Endorsements: A few million extra each year, give or take
• Other Revenue: Business ventures and investments

Before LA, Freeman made plenty with the Braves, where he spent most of his career. His earnings have steadily climbed as he’s become one of the league’s best at his position.

Comparison to Highest-Paid Players

Freeman’s $27 million salary puts him among MLB’s better-paid players, but he’s not at the very top—some stars pull in $40 million or more a year.

His contract reflects his steady production, not a record-breaking payday. This keeps him financially secure but also gives his team some room to build a strong roster.

Looking at positional value, Freeman ranks near the top for first basemen. His bat, glove, and leadership are a big reason why he commands that kind of salary.

He’s got a solid endorsement lineup, but he’s not as visible in commercials as some of baseball’s biggest stars.

Endorsements and Off-Field Ventures

Freddie Freeman’s off-field game is strong, too. His endorsement deals have helped push his estimated net worth to $80 million.

He’s teamed up with brands like Marucci Sports, who even gave him his own signature bat. That’s probably his most recognizable endorsement.

He also has deals with Nike (for apparel) and Under Armour (for equipment). These partnerships bring in extra cash and boost his profile outside of baseball.

Freeman isn’t one to chase every endorsement opportunity. He’s pretty selective, picking brands that fit his image and values.

Off the field, Freddie and Chelsea run the Freddie Freeman Foundation, a charity that supports kids facing serious illnesses.

They put on an annual charity softball game that draws MLB players and celebrities, raising a lot for children’s causes. Giving back is a big part of Freeman’s life.

He’s also invested in real estate, owning properties in California and Georgia. These investments are another key piece of his financial picture.

Freeman might not be as flashy as some MLB stars, but his approach to endorsements and business is thoughtful and family-first—something fans and brands seem to appreciate.

Playing Style and On-Field Impact

Freddie Freeman stands out as one of baseball’s best, thanks to his unique approach at the plate, defensive skills, and leadership.

Batting Performance

Freeman’s hitting style is a blend of power, precision, and—maybe most impressive—consistency. His career line of .300/.393/.503 puts him among the elite. What sets him apart? He’s balanced—can hit for average and power.

In his MVP year (2020), Freeman put up an eye-popping .341/.462/.640 slash line. His lefty swing is compact but packs a punch, letting him drive the ball all over the field.

He’s got a great eye, too. Freeman draws plenty of walks and doesn’t strike out much, showing real patience at the plate. Pitchers can’t get him to chase out of the zone very often.

He’s also come through in the clutch plenty of times—definitely the kind of guy you want up in a big spot.

Defensive Prowess at First Base

At first base, Freeman shows off remarkable defensive skills that, honestly, don’t get enough credit. Standing at 6’5″, he gives his teammates a huge target, and his stretching ability bails out infielders from plenty of wild throws.

Freeman moves his feet around the bag with ease, keeping a toe on the base while reaching for off-line throws. His hands are soft, so he picks up those tricky short-hops like it’s no big deal.

But what really sets Freeman apart is his range. Unlike some first basemen who just camp out at the bag, he’s got surprising lateral movement. He’ll snag grounders that would slip into right field for most guys at his position.

He reads the game well—covering bunts, knowing exactly where to be in any situation. Freeman’s grabbed multiple Gold Glove awards over his career, which feels like a pretty fair acknowledgment of his fielding chops.

Leadership and Work Ethic

Freeman leads by example more than by shouting from the rooftops. He shows up early, stays late, and keeps his focus sharp. That kind of professionalism sets the tone for everyone else.

People around the league talk about his work ethic all the time. He’s usually one of the first in the clubhouse and the last one out, always putting in extra swings in the cage to fine-tune his mechanics.

Inside the clubhouse, Freeman bridges the gap between the old guard and the new kids. He takes the time to help rookies out—not just with their swings, but with how to carry themselves as pros.

He’s pushed through injuries and bounced back from illness, showing a level of resilience that teammates and coaches deeply respect.

Freeman’s steady approach—day in, day out—anchors his leadership style. He’s not the loudest guy in the room, but you always know he’s setting the standard.

Comparisons With Other Notable First Basemen

Freddie Freeman sits in elite company at first base. His mix of hitting, defense, and his contract value make him stand out among his peers.

Prince Fielder and Miguel Cabrera

Prince Fielder and Miguel Cabrera were power-hitting first basemen who landed monster contracts, much like Freeman. Fielder’s nine-year, $214 million deal with Detroit in 2012 turned heads, though injuries ended his career sooner than anyone wanted.

Cabrera topped even that with his eight-year, $248 million extension in 2014—more than Freeman’s $162 million Dodgers contract. Still, Freeman has delivered better production per dollar lately.

All three guys hit over .295 for their careers, but their games are pretty different. Cabrera and Fielder were classic power hitters who gave up some defense, while Freeman pairs a high batting average with solid defense.

Cabrera’s career lasted longer than Fielder’s, but Freeman’s conditioning and consistency make you wonder if he’ll outlast them both.

Albert Pujols and Chris Davis

Albert Pujols set the bar high for first basemen—three MVPs, 703 home runs, and a 10-year, $240 million Angels contract that dwarfed Freeman’s deals. Yet Freeman has managed steadier production throughout his contract years.

Pujols reached higher peaks, but Freeman hasn’t hit that steep decline that Pujols faced in his mid-30s. Their career batting averages (.296 for Pujols, .299 for Freeman through 2025) are awfully close.

Chris Davis, on the other hand, is a warning sign for big first base contracts. His seven-year, $161 million deal (almost identical to Freeman’s $162 million) turned into a disaster after his numbers cratered.

Freeman, though, has kept up his elite annual salary of $27 million with steady production, avoiding the strikeout woes that haunted Davis.

Matt Olson and Eric Hosmer

Matt Olson makes for an interesting comparison as Freeman’s replacement in Atlanta. Olson brings more home run power, but Freeman still wins on batting average and on-base percentage.

Olson’s eight-year, $168 million contract is right in the same ballpark as Freeman’s Dodgers deal, showing how the market values them even though their offensive styles differ. Both field their position well, but Freeman has more Gold Gloves.

Eric Hosmer’s eight-year, $144 million contract with the Padres showed how much teams want a first baseman with Freeman’s skill set. Still, Hosmer never matched Freeman’s offense.

Freeman’s estimated $80 million net worth as of 2025 beats Hosmer’s, despite similar contracts. That probably comes down to Freeman’s consistency, endorsements, and maybe just smarter money moves.

Personal Life and Charity Work

Away from the field, Freddie Freeman keeps busy with family and charity work that really means something to him.

Family and Relationships

Family is at the heart of everything for Freeman. He married Chelsea (née Goff) in 2014, and together they’ve built a close-knit family. They have three sons: Charlie (2016), Brandon (2020), and Maximus (2023). Brandon was born via surrogate after Chelsea’s tough experience with multiple miscarriages.

Freeman’s move to the Los Angeles Dodgers in 2022 wasn’t just about baseball—it also brought him closer to his California roots and extended family.

He’s often talked about how fatherhood changed his whole outlook. “Being a dad is the greatest thing that’s ever happened to me,” he’s said more than once.

You’ll see his family at games all the time, and Charlie has become a bit of a celebrity at Dodger Stadium.

Philanthropic Initiatives

Freeman’s charity work comes from the heart. In 2019, he and Chelsea launched the Freddie Freeman Foundation, focusing on helping kids in need and supporting cancer research.

That cancer research focus is personal—Freeman lost his mom, Rosemary, to melanoma when he was just 10. That loss has driven his passion for helping others in similar battles.

He doesn’t stop there. Freeman supports Dodgers’ community initiatives and jumps into team charity events. Back with Atlanta, he regularly visited Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta.

Freeman and Chelsea also organize annual holiday gift drives for underprivileged kids. They’re big on animal welfare, too, which fits since they’re both animal lovers.

Legacy and Influence on Baseball

Freddie Freeman has left his mark on baseball through his steady excellence and the way he carries himself. He’s influenced teammates and plenty of up-and-coming players.

Impact On The Next Generation

Freeman’s swing gets studied by young first basemen everywhere. That left-handed stroke—short, powerful, and controlled—is the stuff of instructional videos.

A lot of younger players call Freeman their inspiration, especially when it comes to his discipline at the plate and his ability to hit to all fields. His consistent performance and leadership have made him a role model for guys figuring out how to approach the game.

But it’s not just about talent. Freeman’s work ethic and presence in the clubhouse set the bar for professionalism. He plays hard, but he also shows respect for the game and his opponents.

Some MLB rookies have even talked about Freeman giving them advice—even if they’re on the other team. That says a lot about his commitment to baseball’s future.

Recognition In Baseball History

Freeman’s racked up plenty of accolades, and he’s earned his spot in the game’s history books. His MVP in 2020 and his key role in the Braves’ 2021 World Series win stand out as career highlights.

He’s so consistent at the plate that people sometimes compare his approach to guys like Wade Boggs or Tony Gwynn—contact hitters with sneaky power.

Freeman’s defense, which often gets overlooked, has landed him multiple Gold Gloves. He’s saved plenty of errors for his teammates with his ability to scoop throws out of the dirt.

Moving from Atlanta to Los Angeles with that six-year, $162 million contract just added another chapter to his story, connecting him to two of baseball’s most storied franchises.

Media Presence and Public Perception

Freddie Freeman’s genuine personality and community work have made him a media favorite, not just a baseball star.

Interviews and Public Appearances

Freeman comes across as thoughtful and honest in interviews with major sports outlets. His emotional press conference after leaving Atlanta made headlines and showed just how much he cared about the team and its fans. On Yahoo Sports, he opened up about the challenge of moving to Los Angeles.

After big games, he always puts the team first. “It’s never about individual achievements,” he told reporters after a crucial playoff win. “The team success is all that matters.”

He’s appeared on talk shows like Jimmy Kimmel and MLB Network, letting fans see his sense of humor and relatable side.

Social Media Influence

Freeman isn’t the most active athlete on social media, but he keeps it real. His Instagram is a mix of family moments, charity work, and the occasional baseball post.

He and Chelsea have built a big following by sharing their family journey, including stories about their kids and their experience with surrogacy. Fans across the league have really connected with them.

He uses social media mostly to highlight his charity work, especially with children’s hospitals. Freeman doesn’t flood his feed with endorsements, focusing instead on things that matter to him.

During the 2023 season, his posts about team milestones got tons of engagement, proving just how popular he is with fans and the broader baseball community.