Los Angeles Dodgers first baseman Freddie Freeman is dealing with a minor quad injury, manager Dave Roberts revealed Wednesday, just ahead of the club’s series finale against the San Diego Padres. Roberts said Freeman “tweaked” the muscle during Tuesday night’s game but is “managing it” and remains in the starting lineup.
“He’s managing it,” Roberts told reporters. “That’s why he’s in there today.”
While the eight-time All-Star will suit up for the rubber match at Petco Park, Dodgers insider David Vassegh noted that Freeman might not be running at full speed as a precaution.
Los Angeles Dodgers’ Freddie Freeman Managing Quad Injury Amid Stellar Season
The injury comes on the heels of a tough 11–1 loss Tuesday night in which Freeman went 1-for-4 with a walk. Beyond the lopsided score and a rough outing from starter Matt Sauer, Freeman’s health has now become a top concern for Los Angeles as the team enters a pivotal stretch of divisional matchups.
Freeman’s latest ailment adds to what has become a frustrating pattern of lingering injuries dating back to the end of the 2024 season. He rolled his ankle in late September, then gutted through a remarkable postseason performance — later revealing he had played with broken rib cartilage. That effort helped earn him World Series MVP honors and a place in Dodgers lore.
The offseason brought ankle surgery aimed at addressing the lingering issue, but complications persisted. Freeman missed the season opener in Japan due to residual rib pain and was sidelined again in late March after tweaking his surgically repaired ankle in a shower mishap. That setback cost him 10 more games.
Despite the recurring health hurdles, Freeman’s production has been nothing short of elite. He enters Wednesday hitting .349 with a 1.002 OPS — the top batting average in the National League and a mark that would be the highest of his illustrious career if sustained. His OPS+ of 184 places him 84 percent above league average, underscoring his status as one of the game’s most consistent and dangerous hitters.
As the Dodgers prepare for a demanding stretch — finishing the current series against San Diego before hosting the Giants and then facing the Padres again in a four-game showdown — the focus now shifts to ensuring Freeman stays healthy. With the veteran slugger continuing to anchor the offense, the Dodgers will be cautious while monitoring his quad in the days ahead.