The Los Angeles Dodgers have found themselves back in the World Series for the second straight year, though things are a little bit different this time around.
For one thing, the Dodgers’ starting rotation has become a formidable strength this season after the team struggled to field healthy starters throughout last year’s playoffs. And whereas the team’s bullpen was a notable strength during last year’s run, it now faces plenty of questions.
Another key difference lies with superstar first baseman Freddie Freeman. The team was carried by Freeman last year, particularly in the World Series against the New York Yankees. But so far in this season’s playoffs, the veteran has been struggling.
Freeman is slashing just .231/.333/.410 so far this postseason after slashing .250/.291/.519 in last year’s playoffs. In last year’s World Series, Freeman slashed .300/.364/1.000 with a signature grand slam, so he’ll have to enjoy a significant turnaround to make the same kind of contribution this year.
When asked about Freeman’s struggles so far in this postseason run, manager Dave Roberts offered a four-word response that indicated some faith in his star player.
“He’s hanging in there,” Roberts said, per Dodgers Nation.
Roberts also noted that, though far from ideal, things could be worse for Freeman.
“He’s not hobbled which is a good thing,” Roberts added, according to Dodgers Nation. “He’s close, he’s seen some really good pitching.”
After Freeman played such an integral role in the Dodgers’ championship last year, the team is sure to stick with him and hope he can recapture some of that magic against the Toronto Blue Jays this year. But as concerns about his struggles at the plate grow among fans, that type of turnaround is far from guaranteed.
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