Los Angeles Dodgers first baseman Freddie Freeman rejoined the team's lineup for Saturday's game against the Miami Marlins, stating his right knee felt significantly better after a couple of days off. Freeman had been sidelined for the Dodgers' previous two games with what he described as patellar tendonitis.
Freeman, who celebrated his 37th birthday on Saturday, indicated that the injury was a result of general "wear and tear" over his 17th major league season and had been affecting him for several weeks. He noted that the discomfort impacted his defensive mobility and his swing, reaching a point where it hindered his ability to play as he desired.
He also served as the designated hitter the day before sitting out, filling in for the injured Shohei Ohtani. Freeman has experienced similar knee issues in the past and is currently managing the discomfort with daily treatment and medication, without undergoing further medical imaging. He expressed optimism that this approach would alleviate his pain during the final weeks of the regular season.
"It's way better now already," Freeman said Friday, adding that his absence from the previous game was primarily a precautionary measure after a long travel day. He added with a smile that he hoped to be active on the bases during Saturday's game, indicating a full recovery.
