The Los Angeles Dodgers faced a challenging start to their season, missing star players Mookie Betts due to fatigue and weight loss, and Freddie Freeman due to left rib discomfort. Betts returned to LA for recovery, while Freeman was scratched from the lineup shortly before the game, despite being included on Opening Day. Manager Dave Roberts expressed optimism about Freeman’s recovery, emphasizing the importance of not risking injury early in the season. As the Dodgers prepare to face the Angels, Freeman's future playing status may depend on further evaluations after the Tokyo Series.
"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."
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.
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