Freddie Freeman's Finger Fracture: A Blow to the Dodgers' Lineup

Freddie Freeman, the Los Angeles Dodgers' star first baseman, will miss Tuesday's game against the Baltimore Orioles as he continues to recover from a hairline fracture in his right middle finger. While the Dodgers have opted against placing Freeman on the injured list for now, his absence raises concerns about his impact on their playoff push.

This is the classic use of a scheduled off day to pair with a rest day to get two days off for the price of only one game. Except that days off are quite rare for Freeman, who ranks second in the majors in games played since the start of the 2018 season, averaging 159 games played per 162, trailing only Marcus Semien.

Freeman jammed his finger on a ground ball against the Cardinals on August 17, and later exited that game, and sat during the series finale the next day. Last week, Freeman had three hits in 23 at-bats (.130) with two doubles, two walks, and seven strikeouts. Despite the discomfort, Freeman played through the injury.

However, after a week of playing with the fracture, the Dodgers have decided to give him some rest. “He wants to be in there, understandably,” said Dodgers manager Dave Roberts. “I think each day can only help, not having to prepare each day to hit. Where we’re at right now, I just don’t want this thing to linger. If we can calm down, we’ll be in a better spot.”

Freeman's Future Uncertain

Freeman is available off the bench for the series opener, but possibly only in a nominal sense. Roberts said there's a chance that Freeman might be out of the lineup for multiple games in this series, depending on how he feels.

The Dodgers are taking a cautious approach with Freeman's injury. While they're not immediately placing him on the 10-day IL, the fracture is expected to take four to six weeks to fully heal. This means Freeman could miss games through mid-September to the end of the regular season.

“He could have played today, he wanted to play,” Roberts said. “I just don’t think the IL makes a whole lot of sense right now, because even in 10 days the fracture is not going to heal.

“I still believe that giving it some time to calm down, and not playing, there’s only benefit.”

How Freeman's Absence Impacts the Dodgers

Freeman's absence will test the Dodgers' depth, particularly in their lineup. Kiké Hernandez started at first base for the Dodgers on Tuesday, with Max Muncy remaining at third base. Roberts decided against putting Muncy at first base, where he played in 2021 and was a Gold Glove finalist, because he hasn't taken many grounders at the position in over two years.

The Dodgers are hoping this is a short-term rest for Freeman, allowing him to return to his productive form as quickly as possible. Freeman is a vital part of the Dodgers' lineup, a five-time All-Star who brings experience and consistent hitting to the team.

Freeman, 34, is hitting .284 this season with 17 home runs and 73 RBIs. His .382 on-base percentage leads the Dodgers and ranks second in the National League this season. His .475 slugging percentage gives him an .856 OPS (141 OPS+).

The Dodgers' Playoff Push

With Freeman's status uncertain, the Dodgers are facing a crucial stretch in their season. The Dodgers currently hold a comfortable lead in the National League West, but the playoff race is heating up. Freeman's ability to return to full health will be critical for their success in the coming weeks.

What's Next for Freeman?

The Dodgers are taking a wait-and-see approach with Freeman's injury. They are hoping that this rest will allow his finger to fully recover and allow him to return to the lineup with full strength. However, the possibility of a longer absence remains, which could have a significant impact on the Dodgers' playoff hopes.

The Dodgers are a team that prides itself on its depth and resilience. Their ability to overcome Freeman's absence will be a true test of their mettle and a defining moment in their push for a championship.

The Future is Uncertain, But the Dodgers Remain Focused

With Freddie Freeman's health in question, the Dodgers face an uncertain future. However, their focus remains on winning games and staying competitive. They know that they have a strong team, and they are confident in their ability to overcome this challenge.