The Los Angeles Dodgers lost one of their most important players in recent years at the start of free agency as Corey Seager signed a 10-year, $325 million contract with the Texas Rangers.
While the Dodgers already have a natural replacement to take over the starting job at shortstop in Trea Turner, Seager’s departure makes them weaker from the left side of the batter’s box. With Max Muncy still recovering from a torn ulnar collateral ligament (UCL)) in his left elbow, L.A. presumably will look to add a left-handed bat once the lockout concludes.
One possible option is Freddie Freeman, who remains on the open market after being unable to work out a new contract with the Atlanta Braves prior to the lockout.
During an appearance on “Petros and Money,” David Vassegh of AM 570 L.A. Sports Radio revealed that several prominent Dodgers players are in favor of the team signing Freeman:
“I had three different Dodger players of significance text me after Seager’s news was announced, ‘Freddie Freeman. Freddie Freeman. Freddie Freeman.’”
Heading into free agency it was widely presumed Freeman and the Braves would quickly agree to a new contract. That didn’t happen as the two sides were believed to be in disagreement over a sixth year.
However, it has additionally been reported Atlanta didn’t even offer their star first baseman a contract before the work stoppage.
While many around the sport still expect Freeman and the Braves to continue their relationship, the Southern California native at minimum must consider the possibility of playing elsewhere. Along with the Dodgers, the New York Yankees have been mentioned as a potential landing spot.
Implications of Dodgers signing Freeman
Although Freeman may be an intriguing option for the Dodgers, there are multiple hurdles that could prevent a signing from happening.
Because he rejected the qualifying offer, L.A. would lose their second- and fifth-highest picks in the 2022 MLB Draft, as well as $1 million from their international bonus pool for the upcoming signing period.
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