The Los Angeles Dodgers are up against the Chicago Cubs but will play without their first baseman, Freddie Freeman. Just before the exhibition games in Tokyo, the team announced the absence of Mookie Betts. Dave Roberts mentioned that Betts was out due to illness and will miss the series against the Cubs.
Fans were concerned because they had yet to identify the reason behind Mookie Betts’ illness. However, more shocking news came when the team announced that Freeman had been scratched from the Opening Day lineup.
Why Is Freddie Freeman Scratched From The Lineup?
The Los Angeles Dodgers revealed that the first baseman struggled with left rib discomfort. The All-Star was set to hit third behind Shohei Ohtani and Tommy Edman and play his usual defense at first base.
The World Series hero played both exhibition games in Japan against the Hanshin Tigers and Yomiuri Giants. Just hours before the regular season game, Freddie Freeman was forced to exit while taking live batting practice sessions.
Freddie Freeman has been scratched from the Dodgers lineup pic.twitter.com/TDm7biFr6E
— FOX Sports: MLB (@MLBONFOX) March 18, 2025
The Los Angeles Dodgers have not made any further comments on his status. Fans hope that his injury is not serious. It’s still unclear if Freeman will play in Game 2 against the Cubs.
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Los Angeles Dodgers Move In Teoscar Hernandez To Fill Freddie Freeman’s Spot
The Los Angeles Dodgers had to make changes to their team as they moved in Teoscar Hernandez to fill in for Freeman. Kike Hernandez was initially going to play in left field, but he was transferred to first base. The team moved Michael Conforto to Kike’s spot and set up Teo to hit behind Edman.
Dave Roberts mentioned that Mookie Betts will not play for the Tokyo series. Freeman and Betts were poised to hit behind Shohei Ohtani. Both players have time to recover before they take on the Detroit Tigers in Dodger Stadium.
Fans were upset with Betts’ update and took to social media to react with concern. Likewise, several fans are worried about Freddie Freeman’s status. The only hope is for the slugger to return healthy for the regular season. Freeman also had an ankle injury last season, but he seemed to have recovered fully.
