The Dodgers, reigning as World Series champions, have encountered a rocky spell that’s left fans on edge. After a bruising sweep at the hands of the Milwaukee Brewers for the second time in as many weeks, the team faces another hurdle as star first baseman Freddie Freeman took a hit, literally, from an 88 mph sinker by Brewers starter Jose Quintana. The misfortune came in Sunday’s narrow 6-5 defeat, with Freeman retreating to the dugout, clutching a left wrist contusion.
For Dodgers fans holding their breath, there’s a silver lining—manager Dave Roberts assured that Freeman’s X-rays returned negative. However, the uncertainty lingers on when the World Series MVP will return to action. With Monday’s series opener against the Twins looming, all eyes are on rookie Dalton Rushing, who could make his big league debut at first base if Freeman isn’t cleared to play.
Before being forced out of the game, Freeman’s performance pointed towards his struggles of late. An 0-for-2 outing with two strikeouts painted the picture of his recent frustrations. Since early June, Freeman’s batting stats have dipped to rare lows, hitting just .201 with a .274 OBP, and a solitary homer. With a wRC+ of 57, Freeman finds himself among the league’s least productive hitters in this period—a position unfamiliar to the seasoned slugger.
Unfortunately, Freeman’s woes echo a broader issue for the Dodgers. A mere 2-10 record in their last dozen games has significantly tightened their grip on the NL West, with their lead dwindling to a slender 3.5 games. The urgency is palpable as playoff pursuits intensify, and the Dodgers must rally and rectify their course to stay in the championship hunt.
