What else is there to say about Freddie Freeman? Our franchise first baseman has been the epitome of an ironman and fantastic all-around teammate. All he’s done since he being called up to the majors is hit and play Gold Glove-caliber defense. He’s held down first base for this club for nine years now and has seen the best and worst of this team since the 90s. Now, Freeman is mentoring Ronald Acuna Jr, Ozzie Albies, and Mike Soroka, but he’s also played alongside Erick Aybar, Aaron Blair, and Sugar Ray Marimon. Throughout the whole process, there was never a single complaint or demand for a trade. All Freddie did was arrive at the park, do his job, and show nothing but gratitude towards the organization. Hell, he even moved to third base for half a month in 2017 because he thought it was what was best for the team.
On top of being a standup guy and insanely unselfish, he’s put up MVP-type numbers without ever being in the conversation (his best finish was 4th last season). Twice he’s played in all 162 games and is on track to do it again this season. Since 2016, you can argue he’s been a top 5 player in baseball. These numbers include 2017 when he missed time with a broken wrist.
.306/.397/.558/.954, 154 2B, 123 HR, 377 RBI
On top of leading the NL in hits, doubles, and games played last season; he’s currently pacing the senior circuit in RBIs and games played again. If Freeman was on the Yankees or Cubs, he’d be getting a lot more MVP love than he is (granted Bellinger and Yelich are both putting up insane numbers).
The main thing about Freddie has nothing to do with his play or how much he’s loved in the clubhouse, but it’s more about his presence and aura. He’s stuck with this team even when they were downright pathetic. He is the true definition of a franchise cornerstone and the perfect Atlanta Brave. While he may be underappreciated by many outside of the city, there are few players in the history of the organization more loved by Braves Country. Happy Birthday, Freddie! Now, let’s capture that elusive second World Series trophy since moving to Atlanta.