Los Angeles Dodgers' All-Star first baseman Freddie Freeman was absent from the starting lineup for Game 4 of the National League Championship Series against the New York Mets. Freeman has been battling a severely sprained and swollen right ankle, which has been a concern throughout the postseason. Dodgers manager Dave Roberts emphasized that Freeman's health was the top priority, leading to the decision to rest him for Game 4.
Despite not starting, Roberts hinted at the possibility of using Freeman as a pinch hitter in a crucial situation. Freeman, known for his professionalism and dedication, has been undergoing extensive pregame treatments to stay on the field.
With the Dodgers holding a 2-1 lead in the NLCS, adjustments were made to the lineup for Game 4. Max Muncy shifted to first base, and Kiké Hernández moved to third base. Rookie outfielder Andy Pages was slated to start in center field, with Teoscar Hernández moving up to Freeman's usual No. 3 spot in the batting order.
On the Mets' side, Harrison Bader was chosen to start in center field over Tyrone Taylor based on his previous success against Dodgers' starter Yoshinobu Yamamoto.
Both teams made strategic lineup decisions, considering player performance, matchups, and injuries. The focus remains on the competitive nature of the NLCS as the series progresses.
Freeman's absence in Game 4 serves as a reminder of the physical toll that postseason baseball can take on players, highlighting the dedication and sacrifices made by athletes to compete at the highest level.
