Freddie Freeman reached an incredible milestone this past Tuesday as he helped the Los Angeles Dodgers defeat the Pittsburg Pirates.
The 36-year-old became the 102nd player in MLB history to reach 2,500 career hits, contributing to the Dodgers’ 10-run seventh-inning comeback in the process.
The Dodgers have had a veteran-laden roster, so moments like these have become commonplace over the past couple of seasons. Freeman gave his reasoning as to why he wouldn’t make a big deal out of the moment on his own, but time and the Dodgers’ efforts have helped him learn to appreciate it.
“I’ve never thought about it as I was going along. When I got here and over the last few years, we have appreciated the big moments for all the guys that reach these things,” Freeman said on SportsNet LA.
“When you’re going through the course of 162 (games), every single day is the same. You’re grinding and doing everything you can. So when you have an organization that steps back and takes time to appreciate what you’ve done over the course of your career, it does help you take a moment for a second.
“It makes you take a step back and realize how hard this game is and how long you have to play to reach these things. So it does mean a lot. If you would’ve asked me 10 years ago, I probably would’ve brushed it off and kept going. But as you get older, you get a little more emotional and sentimental.
“It’s nice for people to take a moment to appreciate what you’ve done in this game. It’s special. I understand 2,500 is a lot of hits. I’m happy to be able to do it.”
Freeman has shown no signs of slowing down with his bat despite being in the midst of his 17th Major League season. He’s batting left-hander is hitting .275/.362/.465 with 17 doubles, 10 home runs and a 136 wRC+.
The highly exclusive 3,000-hit club is within reach for the future Hall of Famer and it is something that motivates him to continue his career. However, the recent birth of his daughter has caused Freeman to reevaluate and consider retiring earlier than anticipated.
Freeman previously stated in Spring Training that his goal was to play four more seasons and retire at the age of 40. He remains open to this possibility after a conversation with his grandfather.
Dodgers celebrate Freddie Freeman
The Dodgers had a toast for Freeman in the clubhouse after the game, with manager Dave Roberts and several of his teammates encouraging him to go for 3,000 hits. The longtime MLB veteran said the love he received from the organization meant a great deal to him.
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