Freddie Freeman’s determination to play through pain during the Los Angeles Dodgers’ pursuit of a World Series title in 2023 serves as a testament to his resilience and love for the game. His father, Fred Freeman, was a key figure in his life and career, yet even he struggled to convince his son to rest and recover from his numerous injuries, which included a severely bruised ankle, a fractured middle finger, and, most significantly, a broken rib cartilage. Despite the pleas from his father, who had watched Freddie battle through tough circumstances since the death of his mother, Rosemary, when Freddie was just 10 years old, the elder Freeman could only watch as his son pushed through unimaginable pain.
The injury that stood out the most during the Dodgers’ postseason run was Freeman’s broken rib cartilage, which he sustained on October 4. This injury was significant because, as noted by ESPN’s Jeff Passan, a broken costal cartilage in the sixth rib would normally sideline most players for months. However, Freeman refused to be sidelined when it mattered most, knowing that his team was on the verge of a championship. His resolve to play through this debilitating injury was not just a physical battle but also an emotional one, especially given the stakes of the postseason and his role as a veteran leader for the Dodgers.
Freddie Freeman’s father, Fred, saw the toll the injuries were taking on his son. The older Freeman, who had been a guiding presence in Freddie’s life since his mother’s passing, was understandably concerned about the long-term effects of pushing through these painful injuries. “I actually told him to stop,” Fred Freeman recalled in a recent interview. “I said, ‘Freddie, this is not worth it. I know you love baseball. I love baseball. But it’s not worth what you’re going through.’” Despite the heartfelt plea, Freddie remained resolute. His response was clear and unwavering: “Dad, I’m never going to stop.”
For Freddie, the idea of stepping away, even for his health, was inconceivable. Baseball was not just a game; it was a bond, a way to honor the memory of his mother, and a chance to achieve the highest levels of success alongside his teammates. His passion for the game was evident in every at-bat, every swing, and in his ability to deliver in clutch moments. Even with the limitations imposed by his injuries, Freeman proved to be a force in the Dodgers’ World Series victory. He batted .300, hit four home runs (one in each of the first four games), and drove in 12 RBIs, playing a pivotal role in the Dodgers’ 4-1 series win over the New York Yankees.
In the face of adversity, Freddie Freeman not only played through physical pain but also exemplified the mental toughness that comes with being one of the best in the game. His determination to stay on the field, even when it seemed like the smart choice would be to rest, helped propel the Dodgers to victory. It was a moment of vindication for Freeman, who had pushed his body to its limits and yet was able to deliver on the biggest stage.
While his father’s concerns were entirely justified, Freddie Freeman’s willingness to sacrifice his body for the team underscored just how much this championship meant to him. In the end, his commitment to playing through the pain not only helped him capture a World Series ring but also solidified his legacy as one of the most relentless competitors in baseball.
