February 1, 2025

Compared to his first two extraordinary seasons with the Dodgers, Freddie Freeman's (ankle) 2024 was a letdown. Still, the former Silver Slugger delivered a solid final line of .282-22-89-81-9. Freeman went on to earn the World Series MVP after hitting a home run in each of the first four games of the series en route to securing LA's title. Despite the decline in production, Freeman's plate discipline metrics were par for the course and even though his expected averages were his lowest in the Statcast era, they were still well above league averages. Freeman had surgery in December to remove loose bodies from his right ankle. While he is expected to be ready for Spring Training, fantasy managers should monitor his recovery in case of any setbacks. Assuming he is good to go, Freeman is an excellent spot for a rebound hitting in the top third of LA's star-studded lineup. Currently ranked as RotoBaller's No. 3 first baseman, Freeman is appropriately priced at a 24.12 ADP. Update 2/28/25: Freeman will have his ankle taped throughout the All-Star break. He had surgery to remove loose bodies from his right ankle last December but is expected to be ready for Opening Day. The 35-year-old's draft stock will take a bit of a hit as Freeman has stated his ankle won't be fully healed for the first half of the season. Fantasy managers should continue to monitor the situation.--Dan Stephens - RotoBaller