Freddie Freeman Bio
Frederick Charles Freeman, born on September 12, 1989, is a Canadian and American professional baseball first baseman for the Los Angeles Dodgers of Major League Baseball (MLB). Freeman made his MLB debut with the Atlanta Braves in 2010 and played with them for 12 seasons. After the Braves won the 2021 World Series over the Houston Astros, Freeman entered free agency and signed a six-year, $162 million contract with the Dodgers. A nine-time MLB All-Star and three-time World Series champion, Freeman won a Gold Glove Award in 2018; the Silver Slugger Award in 2019, 2020, and 2021; and the National League’s Most Valuable Player Award in 2020. In 2024, he won World Series MVP after setting a record for consecutive World Series games with a home run, including the first walk-off grand slam in World Series history. In international competition, Freeman plays on the Canadian national team.
Early Life and Background
Frederick Charles Freeman was born in Fountain Valley, California, to Fredrick and Rosemary Freeman, both Canadians from Ontario. His family moved to California due to Fredrick’s work commitments. Freeman’s mother passed away from melanoma when he was just 10 years old, which deeply affected him. He has two older brothers, Andrew and Phillip, and is a sixth-generation Salvationist. Because both of his parents were born in Canada, Freeman holds dual Canadian and American citizenship. Growing up, he was a fan of the Los Angeles Angels and began playing baseball at a young age, quickly advancing through local leagues. He attended El Modena High School, where he excelled as a third baseman and pitcher, earning accolades for his performance.
Path to Baseball
Freeman was selected by the Atlanta Braves in the second round of the 2007 MLB draft, signing with the team for $409,500 and forgoing a college scholarship. He made his professional debut with the Gulf Coast Braves in 2007 and played for the Rome Braves in 2008. By 2009, he was recognized as one of the Braves’ top prospects, showcasing his talent in the minor leagues before making his MLB debut in September 2010. Freeman’s early career was marked by significant achievements, including being named the National League Rookie of the Month in July 2011, where he led all Major League rookies in several statistical categories.
Freddie Freeman Career
Early Career (2010–2013)
Freeman made his MLB debut on September 1, 2010, and quickly made an impact, recording his first hit and home run shortly thereafter. He became the starting first baseman for the Braves in 2011, where he had a breakout season, finishing with a .282 batting average, 21 home runs, and 76 RBIs. His performance earned him a second-place finish in the National League Rookie of the Year voting. In 2013, Freeman was selected as a finalist for the All-Star Game Final Vote, winning with a record-setting number of fan votes, although he was unable to participate due to injury. He finished that season with a .319 batting average, 23 home runs, and 109 RBIs, solidifying his status as a rising star in the league.
Breakthrough (2014–2021)
Freeman’s career continued to ascend with a significant eight-year, $135 million contract extension in February 2014. He was named an All-Star for the second time that year and led the Braves in multiple offensive categories. Freeman’s performance peaked in 2020 when he won the National League MVP award, becoming the first Braves player to do so since Chipper Jones in 1999. He also played a crucial role in the Braves’ 2021 World Series victory, hitting a game-winning home run in the National League Division Series and contributing significantly throughout the playoffs.
Notable Works and Milestones
Freeman’s signature work includes his pivotal role in the Braves’ 2021 World Series championship, where he also received the Silver Slugger Award and Babe Ruth Award. His consistent performance has made him a key player in MLB history, recognized for his offensive and defensive skills.
Freddie Freeman Award Nominations
Freeman has received numerous nominations throughout his career, reflecting his status as one of the top players in baseball. His accolades include multiple All-Star selections and recognition for his offensive prowess.
Freddie Freeman Awards Won
Freeman has won several prestigious awards, including the National League MVP in 2020, three Silver Slugger Awards, and multiple All-Star selections. His achievements highlight his impact on the game and his contributions to his teams.
Freddie Freeman Family
Freeman married Chelsea Goff in 2014, and the couple has three sons. They have navigated personal challenges, including their youngest son’s diagnosis with Guillain–Barré syndrome in 2024. Freeman’s family life is an essential aspect of his identity, and he balances his professional commitments with his role as a father.
Personal Life
Freeman and his family have lived in Atlanta during the baseball season and California during the off-season. After signing with the Dodgers, he transitioned to living in Southern California. Freeman is known for his humility and kindness, often engaging with fans and fellow players alike. His personal experiences, including a memorable rescue by teammate Chipper Jones during a winter storm, have endeared him to fans and solidified his reputation as a beloved figure in baseball.