Dodgers Provide Positive Freddie Freeman News After Early Exit

Los Angeles Dodgers first baseman Freddie Freeman left Wednesday's game against the Chicago Cubs early after being hit by a pitch, but is unlikely to miss any time. Freeman took a pitch to the hand during the Dodgers' 7-6 loss to the Cubs, visibly grimacing and checking his hand during his final at-bat of the fifth inning. Kike Hernandez came in to replace Freeman at first base.

Freeman underwent X-rays on his hand, which came back negative, indicating he will likely play in the team's next series against the Arizona Diamondbacks, which begins Friday at 6:40 p.m. PT. Freeman's early exit was significant for the Dodgers, who have lost their last six games, their second-longest losing streak since April 2019.

Despite Freeman's hitting streak of 15 games earlier in the contest, he was unable to drive in the tying run, which was scored by Alex Call on second base. Freeman, who rarely goes on the injured list, has played 147 or more games in each of his four full seasons with the Dodgers, so the team doesn't have many options if he were to miss time.

However, Kike Hernandez is the likely answer, as he filled in for Freeman in Wednesday's game and has played first base previously for the Dodgers. The team could also shift Max Muncy over to third base, with Tommy Edman splitting time at third base, as both players are familiar with the position. The Dodgers will aim to break their losing streak against the Diamondbacks.