In a much-anticipated return, Freddie Freeman is set to grace the field of Atlanta once again, this time as the starting first baseman for the National League in the All-Star Game. Freeman, who is now in his fourth season with the Los Angeles Dodgers, spent the first 12 years of his illustrious career with the Atlanta Braves. His deep-rooted connection to the city and its fans has made this event particularly special for him.
Freeman has made several return visits to Atlanta over the past four years, and each time, he has been met with overwhelming support. He openly expresses his emotions when he steps back onto the field, acknowledging that he wouldn't be surprised if the fans' warm reception brings about another emotional moment. "Now that I'm here, I think it's going to be special," Freeman stated on Monday night. "For the last four years, every time I come back, the fans have given me such great big standing ovations. I don't expect anything. I'm just happy to be back and play in front of these fans again."
Freeman's journey has been marked by significant achievements, and this All-Star appearance is no exception. He noted that if the fans offer him yet another standing ovation, he will fully embrace the moment. "You guys know, whatever I feel on the field, I let it come out, so we'll see what happens," he added, hinting at the emotional connection he shares with the Atlanta crowd.
Dodgers manager Dave Roberts emphasized how important this return is for Freeman. "It's clear how much it meant to Freeman to return to Atlanta as an All-Star," Roberts remarked. "Once they announced that it was going to be held here, it was marked on his calendar. His goal was to get back here and get in front of the Braves' faithful that cheered him on for, what, 11, 12 years?"
During his time back in Atlanta, Freeman has also taken the opportunity to reconnect with Braves manager Brian Snitker and some of his former teammates. However, he emphasizes that his primary focus remains on the relationship he has cultivated with the Atlanta fans over the years. "It's special," he said. "I think every time I come back, I try to portray what Atlanta means to me. It's special every time I come back and the receptions they've given me the last four years. I spent a lot of wonderful years here, and I'm excited to be back."
As the All-Star Game approaches, the buzz surrounding Freeman's return to Atlanta continues to grow. His emotional ties to the city and its fans make this event not just another game, but a heartfelt reunion that celebrates his remarkable career and the love shared between him and the Atlanta community.
