Dodgers Manager Upset with Freeman’s Risky Play Amid Injury Concerns

LOS ANGELES, Calif. — The Los Angeles Dodgers defeated the Colorado Rockies 6-2 on Tuesday, but manager Dave Roberts expressed frustration over a risky play by first baseman Freddie Freeman. The incident occurred during the fourth inning when Freeman, the reigning World Series MVP, attempted to steal second base without approval from Roberts or the first base coach.

“I didn’t like it,” Roberts said following the game. The Dodgers were leading comfortably at 5-0 in the top of the fourth inning when Freeman, with two outs and on first base, made his ill-fated attempt to steal. He was thrown out, disrupting the flow of the game.

Roberts highlighted the importance of managing Freeman’s workload, primarily due to his health. “He’s competitive and thought he had a chance to give us a four-run lead. But right now, we need to be cautious and keep him healthy,” he said. “I don’t think we’re going to see him stealing many bases in the near future.”

This comment is not the first time Roberts has addressed Freeman’s base-stealing considerately. Just a week prior, upon Freeman’s return from a brief absence, Roberts explicitly stated the ban on steal attempts. “No. It’s just red as red can be. Red as a fire truck,” he remarked when asked whether Freeman had the green light.

Freeman, known for his competitive nature, only stole nine bases last season as he managed injuries. However, in 2023, he recorded a career-high 23 steals, showcasing his speed as a key aspect of his game. Despite this, his physical condition remains a concern for Roberts.

The significance of Freeman’s health cannot be overstated; his absence was felt last season, raising questions about the Dodgers’ performance in the 2024 World Series. After undergoing ankle surgery in December 2024, Roberts’ cautious stance seems more strategic than critical. “We need Freeman on the diamond as much as possible, and that means being conservative on the bases,” he emphasized.

As the season unfolds, Roberts and the Dodgers remain focused on balancing competitive play with player health, particularly for key contributors like Freeman, whose talents are undeniably vital to the team’s success.