Los Angeles Dodgers star Freddie Freeman has been granted leave by the team to be with his three-year-old son, Maximus, who is battling transient synovitis.
Freddie Freeman, the star first baseman for the Los Angeles Dodgers, has been granted leave by the team to be with his three-year-old son, Maximus, who is battling transient synovitis.
Freeman was scratched from Friday's lineup against the Houston Astros, and the Dodgers have yet to announce when he will return.
Dodgers' Freddie Freeman Granted Leave to Be with Ailing Son
Freeman's wife, Chelsea, recently revealed on social media that Maximus had been diagnosed with transient synovitis, a temporary condition that causes hip inflammation and usually occurs in young boys.
The ailment can make sitting, standing, or walking difficult, and Maximus had not eaten for a few days, Chelsea said.
Dodgers' Freddie Freeman Granted Leave to Be with Ailing Son
The Freeman family received some good news when Maximus was discharged from the hospital on Wednesday, but there was always a possibility that he could return.
"If he doesn't improve in 48 hours he needs to go back to the hospital," Chelsea wrote.
Dodgers' Freddie Freeman Granted Leave to Be with Ailing Son
Dodgers manager Dave Roberts said that Freeman had a heavy heart over the last few days and that the team was praying for Maximus' recovery.
"He's trying to be here for the team and also be there for his family," Roberts said. "But when your child is going through things, it's just hard to be present, and rightfully so."
Roberts added that the team was considering placing Freeman on the family leave list, which would require him to sit out a minimum of three games.
Freeman, the 2020 National League MVP, has hit 16 home runs and knocked in 67 RBIs through 104 games this season. Cavan Biggio stepped in for Freeman at first base on Friday.
The Dodgers entered Saturday with a 62-43 record and hold a 6.5-game lead over the second-place San Diego Padres in the NL West division.
Freeman's leave of absence is a reminder that family is always the most important thing, and that even the most successful athletes need to be there for their loved ones when they need them most.
We wish Maximus a speedy recovery and send our best wishes to the Freeman family during this difficult time.
