The Atlanta Braves have faced a tough decision this offseason.
Hold the face of the franchise after a World Series win or opt for a younger, cheaper option in your position. The Braves chose the latter.
Atlanta switched to Oakland A’s first baseman Matt Olson in March, marking the end of Freddie Freeman’s era after 12 seasons. Freeman finally signed with the Los Angeles Dodgers, who made their first trip to Atlanta this season on Friday. Before the match, Freeman was overwhelmed with excitement.
When he faced a media body in the Braves ’press room for the first time as a visitor, he initially left the podium without saying anything.
He returned moments later with tears, struggling to express his emotions.
“I don’t even know if I can get over that,” Freeman said … “I don’t know, all emotions, it’s hard to put into words. I’m glad to be back. This organization, the people, the media that have covered my family with grace and love for the last 12 years. It is difficult. …
“I’ve always told you how much I love the Braves and this city. I thought I loved this city and this organization very much, but you can already tell me how much I really love this organization and this city. I don’t love it. Even I know how I will spend this weekend to be honest. “
Freeman receives the World Series ring, standing ovation
Prior to the first release, Freeman received his World Series ring with a standing ovation and the chants of “Freddie, Freddie” from the local audience.
His voice was broken as he addressed the fans after the presentation of the ring.
Fans responded with another standing ovation before Freeman’s first baptism.
Freddie Freeman leaves the field before his first game as a visitor to Truist Park. (Todd Kirkland / Getty Images)
Freeman was a cornerstone of the franchise in Atlanta, where he played the first 12 seasons of his MLB career from 2010 to 21. During his tenure he formed five All-Star teams and won five Silver Sluggers, one Gold Glove and was named NL MVP in 2020. He helped the Braves achieve their first World Series victory since 1995 last season. His contract status as a pending free agent was raised during the championship race.
The story goes on
Freeman, 32, entered the offseason without a new deal, and the Braves traded for Olson on March 14th. Olson, 28, made 39 homers last season while making his first appearance in the MLB All-Star. He signed an eight-year, $ 168 million extension with the Braves a day after joining the team. The next day, Freeman signed a six-year, $ 162 million contract to join a Dodgers team that the Braves defeated in the NLCS last season.
Freeman maintained his high level of play in Los Angeles, cutting .308 / .386 / .494 with eight homers, 45 RBI and six stolen bases in 68 games. Olson, meanwhile, has reduced .247 / .347 / .461 with 10 homers and 38 RBIs in 71 games with Atlanta.
The Dodgers entered Friday’s game with a 43-25 record, good for a game lead over the Padres in the NL West. The Braves have managed an 18-3 rise to a 41-30 record to secure four games for the New York Mets, NL-East leaders. Both teams plan to make the playoff field expanded this season and could very well face each other again in the postseason.
But for now Freeman is just worried about spending the weekend. The Braves and Dodgers are scheduled for a three-game series through Sunday.