Freddie Freeman’s Ankle: A Los Angeles Dodgers Concern? + Michael Conforto & Too Many Stolen Bases

As the Los Angeles Dodgers gear up for another season of high expectations in 2025, the health of key players and strategic decisions will play an integral role in the team’s success. Among the many variables that fans and analysts are closely monitoring is the status of Freddie Freeman’s ankle, a potential concern that could have ripple effects on the team’s offense. At the same time, Michael Conforto’s potential return to form with the Dodgers, paired with a rise in stolen bases across Major League Baseball, adds an interesting dynamic to the conversation.

In this article, we will explore how Freeman’s ankle could impact the Dodgers, whether it’s a real concern, and how Conforto’s bat and the team’s new emphasis on speed could play into the franchise’s future plans.

Freddie Freeman’s Ankle: A Los Angeles Dodgers Concern?

Freddie Freeman is not only the heart of the Dodgers’ lineup but also one of the most consistent and reliable hitters in Major League Baseball. Freeman has a long history of success, from his MVP season with the Atlanta Braves to his continued dominance in Los Angeles. However, over the course of the 2024 season, Freeman struggled with an ankle issue that raised some concerns about his mobility and performance.

The injury in question appeared to be a nagging ankle sprain, which led to moments of discomfort during games. While Freeman played through the injury for much of 2024, the lingering issue raised questions about whether it would affect his ability to maintain his elite production at the plate, especially as the 2025 season approaches. Freeman’s ankle health is undoubtedly something the Dodgers’ medical staff will monitor closely in the lead-up to the season.

The Importance of Freddie Freeman to the Dodgers

Freeman’s value to the Dodgers cannot be overstated. Not only is he a top-tier hitter with a combination of power and contact ability, but his leadership in the clubhouse is also crucial for the team’s success. His consistency over the past several years has allowed the Dodgers to remain competitive year in and year out. Freeman finished the 2024 season with a .303 batting average, 29 home runs, and 104 RBIs, and if healthy, he’s projected to be one of the league’s top hitters once again.

A major concern with an injured ankle, particularly for a player like Freeman, is the potential decline in his ability to generate power. A healthy ankle allows for fluid movements and proper weight transfer in a player’s swing, crucial for hitting with authority. Any limitations in his mobility, especially during games where footwork and base running come into play, could lead to a decline in Freeman’s offensive output.

However, it’s important to note that Freeman is a seasoned professional and has proven his ability to play through injuries without significantly impacting his performance. His track record suggests that even with the ankle issue, Freeman could continue to be productive, but it’s something the Dodgers will need to manage closely.

How the Dodgers are Preparing for Freeman’s Injury

As of now, there is no indication that Freeman will be sidelined for the start of the 2025 season. The Dodgers’ training staff has worked diligently to ensure Freeman’s ankle is rehabilitated properly, and with the team’s focus on rest and recovery, they hope to avoid any long-term setbacks.

Given Freeman’s importance to the lineup, the Dodgers will likely give him ample time to rest and recover during the spring training period. If the injury persists or if Freeman is unable to get back to full health, the Dodgers might consider adding depth to the position by bringing in a player who could back up Freddie Freeman at first base, or even experiment with different lineups in which Max Muncy or Chris Taylor fill the gap.

In addition, while Freeman has been excellent defensively at first base, a healthier version of Freeman will also help the team’s pitching staff, as his defense at first is often overlooked. His ability to stretch and scoop throws at first base is a key aspect of the Dodgers’ defensive success.

Michael Conforto’s Role: Resurgence in Los Angeles

Another key piece of the Dodgers’ offensive puzzle is Michael Conforto. After a couple of injury-plagued seasons, Conforto’s move to Los Angeles presents an exciting opportunity for a fresh start. The Dodgers are renowned for their ability to help players regain their form, and Conforto’s bat could be a significant asset if he returns to the form he showed earlier in his career with the New York Mets.

Conforto’s bat has the potential to complement Freddie Freeman in the heart of the Dodgers’ lineup. He’s a versatile hitter with power and plate discipline that can work in tandem with the other Dodgers’ sluggers. If Conforto can regain his consistency at the plate, he could take over a critical spot as a run producer for the team.

One area where Conforto may thrive is in batting against left-handed pitchers, an area where the Dodgers have historically had some struggles. Conforto’s ability to provide solid left-handed hitting could provide a perfect balance to a lineup that is predominantly right-handed.

Stolen Bases: A Growing Trend in Baseball

As the game of baseball continues to evolve, there has been an increasing emphasis on speed and base running. One of the most intriguing trends in baseball in recent seasons has been the surge in stolen bases. With the introduction of the pitch clock and the shift ban, base runners have had more opportunities to make aggressive plays on the basepaths.

This trend could significantly impact the Dodgers’ approach in 2025, and it’s worth considering how this might influence Conforto’s value to the team. While Conforto is not known for being a base-stealing threat, his ability to get on base at a high clip could create opportunities for him to score from second base on a single or advance more aggressively. Freddie Freeman, on the other hand, is not the fastest player, but his ability to get on base is equally valuable when thinking about manufacturing runs. His on-base percentage has consistently been above .380, and with more stolen bases around him, he could have more opportunities to score.

The Dodgers have long emphasized the ability to create runs in a variety of ways, and with the recent changes to the game, speed on the basepaths could be a key factor in their strategy. While Mookie Betts and Chris Taylor are the primary players known for stealing bases, other players in the Dodgers’ lineup may also look to capitalize on this trend, providing more scoring opportunities and enhancing the overall dynamics of the offense.

The Bigger Picture: Dodgers’ 2025 Outlook

While Freddie Freeman’s ankle injury is something to monitor, the Los Angeles Dodgers have the depth, talent, and leadership to withstand any challenges. Freeman’s presence, paired with the resurgence of Michael Conforto, adds significant strength to the offense. The incorporation of stolen bases as a larger strategic element could also provide new avenues for the Dodgers to capitalize on their opponents.

As of now, the key for the Dodgers in 2025 will be maintaining Freddie Freeman’s health, as his contribution to both the offense and defense is invaluable. Meanwhile, the potential for Michael Conforto to thrive in the Dodgers’ system is high, and his role in the team’s success will be pivotal. Finally, the trend of increased stolen bases may push the Dodgers to adapt their style of play, adding even more layers to their offensive strategy.

If Freeman can stay healthy and Conforto can provide a boost, the Dodgers will be formidable in their pursuit of another World Series championship in 2025. The combination of a revamped offense, a solid defense, and emerging trends in stolen bases could prove to be the difference-makers in what promises to be an exciting and competitive season.