This is step one: The Los Angeles Dodgers have clinched their division title again, but the pressing question remains—do they have the pieces to achieve more? As the celebration unfolded at Dodger Stadium on Thursday night, Clayton Kershaw and Tyler Glasnow reveled in the moment, while Shohei Ohtani experienced the sting of champagne in his eyes. Freddie Freeman, however, stood on the sidelines, crutches in hand and his right foot secured in a walking boot, yearning to join in the festivities of another hard-fought division clinch after a grueling season.
The atmosphere shifted dramatically during the thrilling fifth-run seventh inning that solidified the Dodgers’ dominance in the NL West. A wave of concern washed over the 52,433 fans present as Freeman fell to the ground in agony, having rolled his ankle while attempting to outrun a throw. The tension was palpable, but it was soon lifted when X-rays revealed no fractures, offering a glimmer of hope for Freeman’s return.
“It’s swollen,” Freeman remarked, likening his ankle to a grapefruit. “But they’re optimistic that I should be able to play by Saturday in the playoffs. That’s what I’m banking on.” His determination to return is evident, even as he prepares to rest during the final regular season game in Colorado.
Andrew Friedman, the president of baseball operations, expressed confidence in a cautious approach. “There’s no reason to play him this weekend. We don’t need it,” he said, underscoring the importance of prioritizing health over immediate play.
The Dodgers’ recent victory over the Padres, a team closely trailing them in the standings, not only secured their division title but also showcased their resilience under pressure. With significant investments made in offseason acquisitions like Ohtani, Glasnow, and others, the Dodgers have positioned themselves as a formidable contender, aiming to overcome the disappointments of past playoff exits.
Manager Dave Roberts reflected on the season’s challenges, stating, “They all feel sweet, but with what we’ve gone through this year, this feels a tick sweeter.” The journey to this point has been marked by injuries that have sidelined key players, yet the team has remained steadfast in their pursuit of success.
Amidst the turmoil, Walker Buehler emerged as a reliable presence on the mound, holding the Padres to just one run in five innings during the decisive game. “This is what I live for,” he stated, embodying the competitive spirit that defines the Dodgers’ roster.
As the playoffs approach, the Dodgers’ offense will be pivotal in fulfilling the high expectations set during the offseason. Ohtani has stepped up, contributing crucial hits and demonstrating his potential as a game-changer. His recent performance, including multiple hits in clutch situations, signals his readiness for the postseason.
With lingering injury concerns for Freeman and others, the Dodgers are keenly aware of the need for depth and adaptability. The upcoming days will be critical as they prepare for the National League Division Series, with hopes of reclaiming their place at the top of baseball.
“We worked really hard to overcome a lot of adversity,” Freeman concluded, emphasizing the team’s resilience. The Dodgers are poised for a playoff run, and with the right pieces in place, they could very well make a significant impact.
