The Los Angeles Dodgers began their title defense without MVP candidates Mookie Betts and Freddie Freeman playing in either of the two Tokyo Series games against the Chicago Cubs.
That became an expected reality with Betts as he dealt with fatigue and significant weight loss upon the Dodgers arriving in Japan. He was included on the Dodgers’ Opening Day roster but returned to Los Angeles early in order to continue recovering.
Meanwhile, Freeman was in the Dodgers lineup for their Opening Day game, only to get scratched roughly 30 minutes before first pitch because of left rib discomfort.
It’s the same injury Freeman dealt with during the postseason last year, though he noted the latest issue is much less severe. Freeman also said he was given roughly a “75%” chance of playing Wednesday.
That didn’t come to pass, but the Dodgers are still encouraged by Freeman’s progress.
“He lobbied hard, like he always does. He wants to play every day. Kind of prepared to play, but ultimately conceded to myself and the training staff,” manager Dave Roberts said before the finale at the Tokyo Dome.
“It’s just too early in the season to potentially put him in harm’s way. Feels much better than he did yesterday. My expectation is he’ll be good to go for the Freeway Series.”
As the Dodgers gain a day in their journey back across the Pacific Ocean, they are off until playing the Los Angeles Angels on Sunday. The exhibition Freeway Series begins at Dodger Stadium before shifting to Anaheim for the Dodgers’ final two Spring Training games of the year.
Kiké Hernández started at first base in Freeman’s absence during the Tokyo Series.
What’s next for Freddie Freeman?
Freeman suggested if he was not able to play on Wednesday that he likely would undergo an MRI once the Dodgers returned to Los Angeles.
Given his condition did improve, it’s unclear if that remains part of the plan. Particularly with Freeman’s assurances his rib injury last October was much worse, and the possibility of breaking through scar tissue from the healing process.
“Last year I needed help getting to my car that first day. I can walk, I can take deep breaths. Just felt a little something in my rib, and with it being the first game, didn’t want it to be something lingering,” Freeman said.
“Dr. ElAttrache was saying it could be scar tissue from it healing, and I did ramp up my volume the last two days, trying to fix my swing from last week.”
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