Overview
- Baseball Canada officials said Freeman is dealing with a “little bit of a health issue” after a long season and emphasized he wants to play for Team Canada.
- Manager Ernie Whitt told The Athletic that Freeman is having “some procedures done” and that more details are forthcoming.
- Dodgers president Andrew Friedman said he does not believe Freeman will require any procedure, highlighting a clear discrepancy with Canada’s account.
- Freeman’s recent health track includes postseason play on a broken ankle in 2024, ankle surgery, a 2025 re-aggravation after a fall, rib issues, and a wrist hit-by-pitch.
- The WBC concludes shortly before MLB Opening Day, raising roster and workload considerations for the Dodgers as confirmed participants Shohei Ohtani and Will Smith prepare for the tournament.