"It is of concern" - Dave Roberts reacts to Freddie Freeman leaving NLDS Game 2 with right ankle discomfort
Los Angeles Dodgers first baseman Freddie Freeman, who sustained an ankle injury in the regular season series finale against the San Diego Padres, was pulled out in NLDS Game 2 after five innings due to right ankle discomfort, the Dodgers said.
Freeman played Game 1 fully and even stole one base. However, in Game 2, he was moving a tad slowly and also went hitless in two appearances at the plate. In his absence, Max Muncy moved from third to first base while utilityman Kike Hernandez played third base.
After the game, manager Dave Roberts was asked about the severity of Freddie Freeman's right ankle troubles.
"It is of concern, it’s day to day, and there’s nothing else we can do about it,” the manager said.
"I think that he is in the same spot, but I do feel that there's a little more comfort … for Freddie, and knowing kind of where the floor is at for him," Roberts added. "Whereas yesterday, you're just trying to figure out what this means and how it feels. But I think feeling how he felt, how he feels today, he feels that he can get through today and manage it."
Meanwhile, the Dodgers suffered a blowout 10-2 loss on Sunday as San Diego Padres equals the NLDS series 1-1.
Freddie Freeman about his injury requiring rest: "Adrenaline took over."
Freeman said he was informed by the medical staff that his injury would normally have meant a four to six week stint on the sidelines. However, with playoffs on the line, the first baseman opted to play through injury.
“I know I took a big risk with how I’m feeling, but it was just the opportunity presented itself and I had to go for it," Freeman said after Game 1.
"Like I said before the game, if I can’t play the game the right way, I shouldn’t be out there. I was doing good enough. Adrenaline took over. Adrenaline has worn off now. I’m tired. It’s a grind this week trying to get myself ready to play."
There's no denying the Dodgers are a much-balanced team on both sides of the plate with Freddie Freeman on it. But considering their star-studded roster and keeping the big picture in mind, maybe sitting him out for Game 3 won't be a bad idea.