The Los Angeles Dodgers have an incredible opportunity to begin the 2025 MLB season. They will start their journey in the Tokyo Series against the Chicago Cubs.
This two-game series features some of the top Japanese players in Major League Baseball. Most notable is the reigning NL MVP, Shohei Ohtani. He returns home to Japan, hoping to put on a show for his native fans. One unique experience the Dodgers had was an open practice earlier in the week.
Freddie Freeman Showed Out for Fans
When most MLB hitters go out for batting practice, they are not trying to hit home runs. That is the case for Freddie Freeman, who was known for hitting line drives only in batting practice.
But, during this unique BP, Freeman was swinging for the fences. According to MLB Network, Max Muncy said, “Even Freddie was trying to hit home runs and Freddie never does that… it was a lot of fun.”
"Even Freddie [Freeman] was trying to hit home runs and Freddie never does that… it was a lot of fun."
Max Muncy speaks on the atmosphere out in Tokyo and the passionate fans watching the Dodgers practice. pic.twitter.com/OXc4xuUsrB
— MLB Network (@MLBNetwork) March 17, 2025
MLB is more of a global game than ever before, thanks to the rise of star baseball players from different countries. We are seeing more MLB regular-season games played in other countries as well.
This season alone, there are games in Tokyo and Mexico. Plus, there have been games played in London in previous seasons. Playing games in other countries is an excellent opportunity to grow the game.
Freddie Freeman Injury Update
One issue hanging over the Dodgers is Freeman’s recovery from his offseason ankle surgery. He has been hindered all of Spring Training, and it appears this may be something he has to deal with all season. It has been recently reported that Freeman has to undergo a grueling rehab practice to get ready to play each day.
It will be interesting to see how often the Dodgers elect to play Freeman this season. He will still be an everyday player, but it would not be a surprise to see him get a few extra days off during the season. Also, with Ohtani as the permanent DH, Freeman must play first base most days, putting additional stress on his ankle.
Freeman has been one of the best hitters in baseball over the past decade, but he is starting to get up there in age. He will turn 36 in September, and even though Freeman has shown no signs of slowing down, the Dodgers need him healthy and playing his best come October. His status will be something to keep an eye on this season.