Freddie Freeman, a key player in the Los Angeles Dodgers' quest for the World Series, is expected to return to the lineup for Game 5 of the National League Division Series against the San Diego Padres. Freeman has been sidelined with an ankle injury since September, but the Dodgers are hoping his return will provide a much-needed boost to their offense.
The Los Angeles Dodgers are set to welcome back one of their biggest stars, Freddie Freeman, for a crucial Game 5 of the National League Division Series against the San Diego Padres on Friday night.
Freeman, a five-time All-Star and the reigning National League Most Valuable Player, has been dealing with an ankle sprain since September 26th. He missed the final three games of the regular season and sat out Game 4 of the NLDS on Thursday.
However, Dodgers manager Dave Roberts announced on Friday that Freeman is expected to return to the starting lineup for Game 5.
"Freddie is feeling a lot better," Roberts said. "He's been working hard all week, and he's ready to go."
Freeman's return is a significant boost for the Dodgers, who are facing elimination after losing Game 4 by a score of 5-3. The 35-year-old first baseman is one of the best hitters in baseball, and his presence in the lineup will provide a much-needed boost to their offense.
Freeman is batting .282/.378/.476 with 22 home runs and 89 RBIs this season. He is a key part of the Dodgers' potent lineup, which also includes Mookie Betts, Trea Turner, and Will Smith.
The Dodgers will need Freeman to be at his best in Game 5 if they want to advance to the NL Championship Series. The Padres are a tough opponent, and they will be looking to close out the series on their home field.
However, the Dodgers are confident that they can get the job done with Freeman back in the lineup.
"He's a huge part of our team," Roberts said. "He's a leader, and he's a winner. We're all excited to have him back."
In addition to Freeman's return, the Dodgers are also expected to have shortstop Miguel Rojas available for Game 5. Rojas exited Game 3 with an injury, but Roberts said he is expected to be able to pinch-hit in Game 5.
The Dodgers have not yet announced a starting pitcher for Game 5, but they are expected to go with either Julio Urias or Tony Gonsolin. The Padres will send Yu Darvish to the mound.
Game 5 of the NLDS between the Dodgers and Padres is scheduled to begin at 8:30 p.m. ET on Friday night. The game will be televised on FS1.
