The Los Angeles Dodgers are facing a do-or-die Game 5 with a hobbled Freddie Freeman, but they will have him in the lineup. Dodgers manager Dave Roberts confirmed Thursday that Freeman is expected to be in the lineup for Game 5 of the National League Division Series against the San Diego Padres, per Bob Nightengale of USA TODAY. Shortstop Miguel Rojas is not expected to play.
Freeman has been battling an ankle injury throughout the NLDS after sustaining it on Sept. 26. He was held out of a potentially decisive Game 4, but the Dodgers picked him up and won 8-0 without him.
Freeman has said he would probably be on the injured list right now if the playoffs weren’t in progress. Despite being hobbled, he has gone 3-for-11 in the series.
Freddie Freeman's Impact on the Dodgers
Freeman is a crucial part of the Dodgers' lineup. He is a veteran leader and a consistent hitter. His presence in the lineup gives the Dodgers a much-needed boost. It wasn't just his bat that gave the Dodgers a boost. He was also the spark plug that ignited the team, even with his injury, in Game 1 of the NLDS.
Freddie Freeman's Stolen Base
Freeman is known for his offensive prowess, but he showed off his defensive skills and determination in Game 1. Freeman, playing on a right ankle that was so severely sprained doctors told him “this is a four- to six-week [injured list] stint”, took off for second base after leading off the third inning with a single, showing everyone that he was willing to do whatever it took to win. He stole it, dragging his injured right foot across the top of the bag on his awkward slide, sending a jolt of energy and an extra dose of determination through a Dodgers dugout that had begun to find its footing after erasing a 3-0 first-inning deficit on Shohei Ohtani’s score-tying three-run home run in the second inning.
Freeman's Commitment
The stolen base was a testament to Freeman’s commitment to the Dodgers. He is a true competitor who is willing to put his body on the line for his team. His performance in Game 1 was a shining example of what it means to play for a championship. That stolen base was a borderline miracle, but it wasn’t the first time Freeman played through an injury. Freeman is a grinder who has a knack for playing through pain. He’s been dealing with ankle pain since Sept. 26, but he’s been able to manage it and make a significant contribution to the Dodgers.
Freeman's Status
It remains to be seen how Freeman’s ankle will hold up in Game 5. He is a warrior who is willing to play through pain, but his injury is a major concern for the Dodgers. If he is unable to play, the Dodgers will have to find a way to win without him. But, if he can go, it will be a big boost for their lineup.
The Dodgers' Game 5 Matchup
The Dodgers are facing a tough task in Game 5. The Padres are a talented team that is playing with confidence. The Dodgers will need to play their best game of the series to win. They will need Freeman to be at his best. However, the Dodgers have shown that they can win without Freeman. The Dodgers proved in Game 4 that they can play a game without Freeman and win.
Dodgers' Resiliency
The Dodgers dominated the Padres, 8-0, at Petco Park, forcing a Game 5 back at Dodger Stadium. The Dodgers delivered on that promise, stepping up without both Freeman and shortstop Miguel Rojas. Eight relievers combined to shut out the Padres, while the lower half of the Dodgers' lineup finally broke out of their slump.
The Importance of Game 5
Game 5 is a must-win for the Dodgers. If they lose, their season will be over. They will need to find a way to win this game and advance to the National League Championship Series. It is a big game for the Dodgers, but it is also a big game for Freeman. He is a proud player who wants to help his team win. He is also a determined player who is willing to put his body on the line for his team. Game 5 will be a true test of Freeman’s toughness and resilience.
Looking Ahead
Regardless of the outcome of Game 5, Freeman’s ankle injury is a reminder that baseball is a game of grit and determination. It is a game where players have to overcome obstacles and play through pain. It is a game that requires players to give their all, even when they are hurting. Freeman's ankle injury might be a big concern for the Dodgers, but it also shows the resilience and toughness of this team.
Conclusion: Game 5 Will be a Fight
The Dodgers are facing a huge challenge in Game 5. They have to find a way to win without Freeman, and they will need to step up and play their best game of the series. They will need to show the same grit and determination that Freeman has shown throughout the series. Game 5 will be a fight. Both teams are going to give it their all. The Dodgers are going to need to fight hard to win this game. But they are capable of winning, and if they can find a way to pull it off, they will be one step closer to their goal of winning the World Series.
