Freddie Freeman Faces His Past with Heartfelt Honesty: “That Team Means Everything to Me”

LOS ANGELES, CA — As the sun set over Chavez Ravine and the Dodgers prepared to face the Atlanta Braves, all eyes turned to Freddie Freeman — not just for his performance on the field, but for the emotion etched on his face.

Freeman, now a key part of the Los Angeles Dodgers, found himself in yet another emotional reunion with his former team, the Atlanta Braves, where he spent the first 12 years of his Major League career and became the heart and soul of a championship-winning clubhouse.

“It’s never easy,” Freeman admitted, visibly holding back tears during a pregame interview. “That team means everything to me. But now, I’m here to fight for the Dodgers — and that’s where my heart is today.”

A Legacy in Atlanta, a New Chapter in L.A.

Drafted by the Braves in 2007 and debuting in 2010, Freeman’s time in Atlanta defined his early career. He became a six-time All-Star, a Gold Glove winner, a Silver Slugger, and, most memorably, led the Braves to a World Series title in 2021, cementing his place as one of the franchise’s all-time greats.

However, in 2022, in a move that shocked many fans, Freeman signed a six-year deal with the Dodgers, marking a new chapter in his career. While the decision was fueled by business negotiations and long-term planning, the emotional impact of leaving Atlanta was never far from his heart.

Freeman’s first return to Atlanta in a Dodgers uniform in 2022 brought him to tears — a moment that revealed the deep bond he still holds with the city, teammates, and fans who embraced him for over a decade.

“I’ll Always Be Grateful. But I Have a Job to Do.”

Though the tears have since become fewer, the emotions haven’t dulled. Facing the Braves again, this time at Dodger Stadium, was yet another reminder of what he left behind — and what he’s building in Los Angeles.

“There’s a lot of memories with that team. A lot of people I care about,” Freeman said. “But I wear this jersey now, and I give everything I’ve got to this team, these fans, this city.”

And Freeman has delivered. Since joining the Dodgers, he has remained one of the most consistent and elite hitters in baseball. His presence in the lineup and leadership in the clubhouse have made him an invaluable piece of the Dodgers’ championship aspirations.

Manager Dave Roberts praised Freeman not only for his production but for the way he’s embraced his role in L.A.

“Freddie plays with heart, and that’s why people respect him,” Roberts said. “He didn’t just show up — he showed up with purpose.”

Fans Still Feel the Divide — But Also the Love

For many Braves fans, Freeman’s departure was bittersweet. While some still wish he’d stayed in Atlanta, most hold no grudge — only admiration.

At the stadium this week, a mix of Dodgers and Braves jerseys could be seen — and many fans wore Freeman’s No. 5, regardless of the team color.

“He’s a Brave for life, no matter what team he’s on,” said a fan from Atlanta who traveled to L.A. for the series. “We love him. We just hope he doesn’t beat us this week.”

A Man Between Two Homes

For Freeman, the duality of his journey — part Braves legacy, part Dodgers leader — is something he’s come to embrace.

“You don’t spend 12 years somewhere and just forget it,” he said. “Atlanta helped raise me — but the Dodgers have given me new purpose.”

With both teams likely playoff contenders, there’s always the possibility of another emotional showdown in October. But for now, Freeman remains focused on the present, using the past as motivation and grounding.

“I know who I am,” he said. “And I know where I’ve been. But today, I know exactly where I belong.”

And with that, Freeman stepped onto the field — not just to face his former teammates, but to continue carving out his legacy in Dodger blue.