Freddie Freeman has openly stated there was an expectation of spending his entire career with the Atlanta Braves organization. The Braves drafted Freeman with the No. 78 overall pick in 2007 and he went on to become a franchise pillar, leader in the community and World Series champion.
After helping the Braves end their championship drought, Freeman expressed a desire to re-sign with the Braves. However, free agency did not unfold as many expected, and the Braves wound up replacing Freeman with Matt Olson.
That left the 32-year-old shocked and saddened, but eager to return home by joining the Los Angeles Dodgers. Although Freeman faced the Braves at Dodger Stadium earlier in the year, this weekend is his first visit to Atlanta as a visiting player.
He spoke with media prior to first pitch on Friday, but not first without getting up from the podium to collect himself. Freeman returned a few minutes later and fought through tears as he reflected on his time with the Braves, via Kelly Crull of Bally Sports:
Freddie Freeman fighting back tears & trying to get through his this “being back” press conference. Grab your tissues. #Braves @BravesOnBally pic.twitter.com/EryQ5BPkXY
— Kelly Crull (@Kelly_Crull) June 24, 2022
Heading into the weekend Freeman had been up front over how emotional he would be throughout the series at Truist Park. He had a similar sentiment when facing the Braves in April, and shared a private moment with president of baseball operations Alex Anthopoulos.
The two had a small falling out during free agency but have since held honest discussions and repaired a strong friendship.
Freeman receiving World Series ring from Braves
Freeman figures to get emotional again on Friday night when presented with his 2021 World Series ring. He had the opportunity to receive it at Dodger Stadium, but elected to wait for a pregame ceremony in front of Braves fans.
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