Freddie Freeman’s Legacy: Braves or Dodgers?
Freddie Freeman once seemed destined to be forever remembered as an Atlanta Braves icon. However, as the 2024 season unfolds, that narrative is rapidly evolving. The duality of his legacy is becoming a compelling story as he navigates his career with the Los Angeles Dodgers.
A Hero’s Return
When Freeman signed with the Dodgers in 2022, many viewed him as a Braves player first and foremost. His emotional return to Atlanta that season, where he was honored with a World Series ring, solidified his status in Braves lore. Yet, the unfolding drama of the 2024 postseason has sparked a significant shift in perception.
In the World Series, Freeman delivered a stunning walk-off home run in Game 1, leading the Dodgers to victory and earning the World Series MVP honors after a stellar performance at the plate. With a championship ring now accompanying his accolades with both teams, the question looms: how will he ultimately be remembered?
Defining Moments in a New Jersey
Freeman’s recent heroics continued in Game 3 of the World Series, where he again showcased his prowess with another walk-off homer in the bottom of the 18th inning. Should the Dodgers clinch another championship, Freeman could further entwine his legacy with the franchise, potentially amassing more rings with Los Angeles than he did in Atlanta.
Yet, the conversation about Freeman’s legacy extends beyond the postseason. Since joining the Dodgers, he has earned four of his nine All-Star selections while donning the team’s colors, marking every season with remarkable achievements. He has also garnered two top-five finishes in MVP voting during his tenure in Los Angeles. The landscape of his legacy is rapidly shifting, presenting a scenario where he could be remembered equally as a Dodger.
Comparative Legacies: Mookie Betts and Shohei Ohtani
To understand the trajectory of Freeman’s legacy, examining the paths of teammates like Mookie Betts offers valuable insight. Betts, who enjoyed significant success with the Boston Red Sox—including an MVP award and a World Series title—was traded to the Dodgers ahead of the 2020 season. Since then, he has captured two more championships with Los Angeles, leading to a perception of him as more of a Dodger than a Red Sox star.
Similarly, Shohei Ohtani, who made his name with the Los Angeles Angels, is beginning to carve out his own legacy with the Dodgers. As both players’ careers unfold, the narrative suggests that Freeman may be heading down a similar path, with his identity increasingly tied to his performance in a Dodgers uniform.
Historical Precedents and Hall of Fame Considerations
Looking back at previous Braves legends provides context for Freeman’s own legacy. Greg Maddux, who spent nearly equal time with both the Chicago Cubs and the Braves, is frequently associated with Atlanta due to the success he achieved there. Conversely, Fred McGriff, who had notable stints with the Toronto Blue Jays and Tampa Bay Devil Rays, is primarily remembered for his impactful years with the Braves, highlighted by the World Series championship in 1995.
As the debate over Freeman’s legacy continues, another question emerges: which cap will he wear in the Hall of Fame? While he could choose to represent the Braves with an “A,” the success he’s experienced in Los Angeles complicates that decision. Historical precedents suggest he might land on a blank cap, similar to Maddux and McGriff, who both achieved greatness with multiple teams.
Local Perceptions and Lasting Memories
Freeman’s legacy will also be shaped by how he is remembered in different locales. In Atlanta, he may forever be a Brave, while in Los Angeles, he is already emerging as a beloved figure among Dodgers fans. This duality mirrors the experiences of other sports legends, such as Randy Johnson and Pedro Martinez, who hold different significances in their respective cities.
In the end, Freddie Freeman’s narrative is still being written. While he may be perceived as a Dodgers star on a national level, his roots in Atlanta remain strong. Braves fans can take solace in their cherished memories of his time with the team, while Dodgers supporters revel in his contributions to their franchise. As Freeman continues to shine on the field, the enduring question of his legacy will linger, creating a rich tapestry of baseball history that fans from both sides will cherish.
