Freddie Freeman, who has traditionally taken the third spot in the Los Angeles Dodgers’ batting order behind Shohei Ohtani and Mookie Betts, is preparing to shift his position for the 2026 season. This adjustment comes with the arrival of Kyle Tucker, who will assume the second spot, moving Betts and Freeman down one slot each, while Ohtani remains as the leadoff hitter.
The Dodgers’ lineup reconfiguration sets a fresh dynamic for the upcoming season, positioning Freeman in the fourth spot. This change aims to capitalize on the team’s batting strengths, aiming for increased scoring opportunities with Freeman anchoring the middle of the order.
Freeman Discusses His Approach to the New Role
In a recent interview with SportsNet LA’s Kirsten Watson, Freddie Freeman shared his perspective on adjusting to this fresh position in the order. He expressed confidence and a consistent approach to his game, focusing on his strengths in clutch situations.
“I don’t really change, I really don’t. I’ve always loved being in the middle of the lineup, with guys in scoring positions,” Freeman said. “I love when there’s guys on base. I can either move them from first to third or drive them in. That’s what we’re trying to do in the middle of the lineup.”
“We got some great guys at the top, that are going to be pushing around .380 to .400 on-base percentage, so there should be a lot of opportunities. You just try to put the ball in play. Being in the 4-hole, hopefully there will be a lot of opportunities to cash them in to get some points on the board for us, and win a lot of ball games.”
Mindset and Determination Ahead of the Season
Freeman also shared insights during a conversation with David Vassegh of AM 570 LA Sports about his mindset going into the 2026 season. He conveyed a strong desire to remain in the lineup for as many games as possible as the Dodgers pursue a historic third consecutive championship.
“I’m going to be trying to play 162 games,” Freeman said. “I think you know, I will be ready to go, and if they come in and tell me they want me to have a day off, I will fight in that moment.”
“But my job, my mindset and how I get ready, is to play every single game, and that’s what I’m going to do. That just means I have to get three hits every game so they can’t take me out of the lineup.”
Preparing to Impact the Dodgers’ Success in 2026
Freeman concluded the 2025 season with a .295 batting average, 24 home runs, and 90 RBIs, demonstrating his consistency and power at the plate. His adjustment to the new lineup spot coincides with the Dodgers’ efforts to maximize offensive production and sustain their championship momentum.
With Shohei Ohtani leading off, Kyle Tucker at second, and Mookie Betts sliding to third, Freeman’s new role in the cleanup spot places him in an essential position to drive in runs and influence the team’s scoring. His focus on durability and production reflects a determined attitude, signaling that he plans to be a key contributor throughout the full 2026 campaign.
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