Column: In an Unlikely Year, Freddie Freeman Channels His Inner Kirk Gibson

Freddie Freeman
 Freddie Freeman
 

In an improbable twist for the 2024 MLB season, Freddie Freeman has taken on a role reminiscent of Kirk Gibson’s legendary 1988 postseason moment, bringing a renewed sense of grit and resilience to the Los Angeles Dodgers. Despite being slowed down by a significant ankle injury, Freeman has continued to play a central role in the Dodgers' offense, offering an inspiring display of determination and perseverance that has left fans and analysts alike drawing comparisons to Gibson’s iconic home run for the Dodgers in the World Series. Freeman’s improbable triple in Game 1 of this year’s World Series, achieved on a weakened ankle, serves as a powerful reminder of his commitment to the team and the game​



A Player Known for Consistency and Dedication

Freddie Freeman’s entire career has been a study in disciplined consistency, from his hitting mechanics to his daily training routines. Over the years, Freeman has shown a steady approach that prioritizes base hits, high on-base percentages, and a keen eye for plate discipline, always balancing power with precision. This season, Freeman has once again been an offensive powerhouse for the Dodgers, excelling at the plate with a top-tier batting average and a league-leading number of extra-base hite.

One of Freeman’s signature strengths is his focus on routine and adaptability. Having spent over a decade in the major leagues, he has developed a meticulous pre-game regimen, one that has contributed to his stability and success. As the Dodgers first baseman explained, he is meticulous with his approach at the plate, knowing that consistent quality at-bats usually lead to favorable results. Even in tough moments or slumps, he sticks to his process rather than searching for quick fixes. “If I can lay my head on the pillow and say I did everything I possibly could,” he shared, “then I did everything I could,” illustrating his philosophical, almost Zen-like approach to the game​



Improbable Feats and Gibson-like Resilience

Freeman’s resilience was on full display in Game 1 of the World Series against the New York Yankees, where he managed an improbable triple, an impressive feat for a player battling a serious ankle injury. His performance under pressure was immediately likened to Kirk Gibson's 1988 World Series moment when Gibson, also injured, hit a dramatic pinch-hit home run for the Dodgers, one of the most iconic moments in baseball history. Just as Gibson did then, Freeman has become an inspirational figure, reminding teammates and fans of the determination it takes to succeed on baseball's grandest stage​

Column: In an Unlikely Year, Freddie Freeman Channels His Inner Kirk Gibson
Column: In an Unlikely Year, Freddie Freeman Channels His Inner Kirk Gibson


What sets Freeman apart is his base-running intelligence and ability to capitalize on opportunities. Despite being slower on the bases due to his injury, Freeman has been a pivotal baserunner, smartly picking his moments to advance and taking calculated risks. This strategic approach has been refined under the guidance of the Dodgers’ coaching staff, who help him read pitchers’ tendencies and cues. Freeman isn’t the fastest player, but his understanding of the game allows him to make high-impact plays, a skill that has been especially evident this postseason​



Embracing a Team Leader Role

Freeman’s influence goes beyond his physical contributions on the field. His example resonates with his teammates, especially younger players who are navigating the pressures of the postseason. Dodgers manager Dave Roberts has praised Freeman’s unyielding commitment, noting that his consistency under pressure sets a valuable example for the team. Freeman encourages teammates to trust their unique processes rather than striving to mimic his, emphasizing that each player’s journey to improvement is personal. This leadership quality, combined with his individual resilience, has solidified Freeman’s status as one of the most respected players in the league​.



Channeling Kirk Gibson’s Legacy

In a season filled with challenges, Freeman’s determination and ability to play through adversity have brought to mind Gibson’s courage and grit, cementing a new legacy for Dodgers fans to cherish. His ankle injury, which would typically sideline most players, has not stopped him from giving his all on the field. This has not only strengthened the Dodgers' lineup but has also fostered a sense of unity and resilience within the team, inspiring fans to rally around a player who, like Gibson, embraces each moment as a chance to prove himself.

Freeman’s season has underscored that baseball greatness is not solely defined by speed or power but also by dedication, intelligence, and the unbreakable will to overcome challenges.

 

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