The nine-time All-Star has scored more than 2,400 of his own goals in his 16-year career, and will always share the love when an opponent gets on base. Freeman is often seen smiling at an opponent after reaching first base, complimenting his swing or congratulating him on the hit.
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“I know my pitchers probably wouldn’t like it if I told every guy ‘nice swing’ or ‘way to swing it,’” Freeman said. said on the 6-1-1 Podcast. “But that’s just the way I am, you can see our personalities. We’re kind of bubbly, happy guys. We’re playing a game, it’s a kids’ game. And sometimes you forget when you’re going through the grind of the season and things like that. So I always try to look forward to those kind of moments where you can maybe take someone’s mind off something, talk to them first.”
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Freeman is known around the league as one of the friendliest players in baseball, so his desire to spread positivity, even against opponents, comes as no surprise. Freeman especially enjoys welcoming newcomers to the league after they reach a milestone in their career.
“My favorite is when it’s a big league debut and that guy gets the first hit and can say congratulations. Because you’ve worked so hard all your life, to be one of those people that says, ‘Hey man, congratulations.’ But that’s just who I am, I like to talk to people,” Freeman said.
The three-time World Series champion probably doesn’t have too many seasons left before he ties the knot, as he’s on the north side of 36 with two years left on his contract with the Dodgers. Until then, Freeman will continue to enjoy the forgettable but impactful moments at first base.
“Sooner or later I’m going to retire too and I won’t be able to do this anymore,” Freeman said. “So I just like to have fun with all the guys. I know we’re competing against each other, but you know it’s a brotherhood. We’re together forever if you get to play this game as long as you have to, you just have to enjoy the little moments.”
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