Freddie Freeman’s Return from the IL: A Turning Point for the Dodgers’ 2025 Campaign
For Los Angeles Dodgers fans, the sight of Freddie Freeman sidelined early in the 2025 MLB season was a moment of collective breath-holding. One of the cornerstones of the team’s success, Freeman’s absence—first due to offseason ankle surgery and later due to rib discomfort—left a noticeable void in the heart of the Dodgers’ batting order. But now, according to manager Dave Roberts, good news is finally on the horizon.
Roberts recently revealed the timeline for Freeman’s return, sparking a wave of optimism among Dodgers faithful. Not only is the All-Star first baseman nearing full recovery, but he’s expected to rejoin the lineup at a crucial juncture as the team seeks to establish early dominance in a competitive National League.
In this piece, we’ll explore the timeline of Freeman’s injuries, the strategic decisions behind his recovery, and the impact his return will have on the Dodgers’ season.
A World Series MVP and a Warrior Through Injury
Freddie Freeman has never been one to shy away from adversity. The 2024 season ended on a high note for the Dodgers, with a hard-fought World Series victory over the New York Yankees. Freeman was named World Series MVP after an electric performance—batting .300, smacking four home runs, and driving in 12 RBIs across the six-game series.
What made his performance all the more remarkable was the revelation that he had played through significant ankle pain. The injury, later diagnosed as a right ankle sprain with loose cartilage and bone fragments, required surgical intervention during the offseason.
In December 2024, Dr. Kenneth Jung performed a cleanup procedure on Freeman’s ankle, which included the removal of loose bodies and a debridement to prevent long-term damage. The prognosis was positive, with the Dodgers medical staff anticipating a full recovery in time for spring training.
Spring Training: Encouraging Signs with a Hint of Caution
As the Dodgers reported to Camelback Ranch for spring training in February 2025, all eyes were on Freeman’s progress. Though he did not immediately participate in full baseball activities, Freeman quickly passed key recovery milestones: light running, controlled fielding drills, and soft toss batting.
Dave Roberts was transparent but upbeat. “The running, he’s passed all those check marks,” Roberts told reporters. “We’re going to keep ramping him up, but everything’s looking good.”
Freeman’s first game action was projected for late February against the Colorado Rockies in a Cactus League matchup. However, the Dodgers front office and medical team opted to slow his return slightly to ensure full ankle stability.
This conservative approach is emblematic of the organization’s long-term thinking. With the stakes of a 162-game season and championship aspirations, the Dodgers were committed to prioritizing Freeman’s full health over a rushed return.
Setback in Tokyo: Rib Discomfort Changes the Plan
Just as Freeman seemed poised to be ready for Opening Day, the Dodgers traveled to Japan for a special two-game series against the Chicago Cubs. In what was meant to be a global showcase of MLB’s best, Freeman was expected to headline a star-studded Dodgers lineup.
However, a sudden discomfort in his left rib during pre-game batting practice threw a wrench in the plans.
Roberts confirmed the issue just hours before first pitch. “He felt something during batting practice, and it didn’t feel right. We’re not going to take any chances.”
While initial fears hinted at a possible oblique or intercostal injury, further imaging confirmed it was minor muscular discomfort—nothing structural, and certainly not a long-term concern. Freeman himself remained positive, telling reporters that he believed it was far less serious than previous strains he had played through.
Dave Roberts Reveals the Timeline
On April 10, 2025, Dave Roberts finally provided the update Dodgers fans had been waiting for: Freddie Freeman was set to return during the team’s next homestand, possibly as early as April 14. The update came after Freeman successfully completed a series of simulated at-bats and full-speed defensive workouts.
“He’s looking great,” Roberts said. “He’s been moving well at first, swinging the bat without any hesitation, and he’s cleared all the medical protocols. As long as he wakes up feeling the same tomorrow, he’ll be in the lineup on Monday.”
That one sentence—“He’ll be in the lineup on Monday”—sent a ripple of relief through the Dodgers’ fanbase and the clubhouse alike. It means the return of a consistent .300 hitter, Gold Glove-caliber defender, and clubhouse leader.
Why Freeman’s Return Is So Important
Freeman’s impact on the Dodgers can’t be overstated. Since arriving in Los Angeles in 2022 after a decorated career with the Atlanta Braves, Freeman has been a model of consistency and excellence.
In his three seasons with the Dodgers, he has averaged:
- Batting Average: .315
- Home Runs: 28
- RBIs: 102
- OPS: .935
Beyond the numbers, his presence in the lineup offers crucial protection for sluggers like Mookie Betts, Shohei Ohtani, and Max Muncy. With Freeman hitting second or third, pitchers can’t pitch around anyone without paying a price.
His glove work at first base also provides a stabilizing presence for a Dodgers infield that’s seen some reshuffling due to injuries. His chemistry with infielders like Betts and Gavin Lux smooths double plays and tricky throws, saving countless errors.
Clubhouse Leader and Mentor
One of Freeman’s most underrated attributes is his leadership. He’s known for his even-keeled demeanor, professionalism, and ability to keep the team focused during long stretches of the season.
Younger players like Miguel Vargas and Michael Busch have spoken openly about how much they’ve learned from watching Freeman prepare. In a clubhouse filled with talent and personalities, Freeman serves as a bridge—leading by example and maintaining a calm, focused tone regardless of the stakes.
With Freeman returning, the Dodgers not only regain an MVP-level player, but a cultural cornerstone.
What It Means for the Lineup and Strategy
Freeman’s return will also allow Dave Roberts to reset the batting order and defensive alignments. For the past several games, the team has experimented with Shohei Ohtani batting second and Muncy handling first base. While serviceable, the lineup has lacked its usual rhythm.
With Freeman back, here’s how the Dodgers lineup could look:
- Mookie Betts – SS
- Freddie Freeman – 1B
- Shohei Ohtani – DH
- Will Smith – C
- Max Muncy – 3B
- James Outman – CF
- Teoscar Hernández – RF
- Gavin Lux – 2B
- Kiké Hernández – LF
This lineup is deadly from top to bottom. It also reestablishes a left-right balance that makes life difficult for opposing managers and relievers.
Long-Term Implications: A Run at Another World Series
The Dodgers entered the 2025 season with one clear goal: another championship. Anything short of a deep postseason run would be seen as a disappointment, especially after their high-profile offseason additions and the continued excellence of their core players.
Freeman’s health is critical to that mission. With him back in the mix, the Dodgers’ offense becomes one of the most potent in baseball again. If he returns to his usual production levels, expect L.A. to reclaim its status as the team to beat in the National League.
Conclusion: The Calm Before the Storm
As Dave Roberts confirmed Freddie Freeman’s return, he did so with the calm assurance of someone who knows just how much of a difference that bat and glove can make.
Injuries are part of the game, and the Dodgers managed admirably without their All-Star first baseman. But now that he’s ready to suit up again, a new chapter begins—not just in the 2025 season, but in the legacy Freeman continues to build in Dodger Blue.
For fans, it means more than just another big bat in the lineup. It’s a sign that the team is whole again, that the championship window remains wide open, and that the next great Dodgers run might just be getting started.
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