Chris and Mary Taylor hosted a “Driving For Hope” charity event at Topgolf El Segundo last week in the latest event through their CT3 Foundation.
Proceeds benefitted Children’s Hospital Los Angeles (CHLA), and the Taylors were supported by several members from the Los Angeles Dodgers, including Freddie Freeman, Tony Gonsolin, Gavin Lux, general manager Brandon Gomes and Jaime Jarrín.
“Chris Taylor and children, it’s a pretty good combo to come out and support,” Freeman said from the red carpet. “I did a lot of work with children’s healthcare in Atlanta when I was there. Anything to do with children, I’m going to be here.
“Once Chris asked me to come, I said, ‘Yes, of course.’ I have three kids. Unfortunately some kids are already there right now (needing assistance), and our kids could be there one day. So I’ve got to come out and support to help raise as much money as possible.”
Although countless MLB players enjoy playing golf and use the offseason to take part, Freeman was not among that group.
“I’ve played golf one time since my twins were born, so I don’t know how the swing is,” he said. “I hit today in baseball, and I did OK, so we’ll see if I can hit a golf ball.”
Gonsolin added: “You can really see how everyone comes together for the cause rather than individual wants or needs. It’s really cool to see all these guys come together.”
Freeman was accompanied by his son Charlie, who often was with his father at Dodger Stadium last season and couldn’t wait to take his swings.
“He is really excited. Charlie really, really wants to hit the golf balls,” Freeman said. “So that’s why he’s here, just to have fun and see some of the guys.”
Freddie Freeman wanted Dodgers to sign Heyward
Among the Dodgers’ additions this offseason was signing Jason Heyward to a Minor League contract, which reunited him with Freeman.
The All-Star first baseman revealed he lobbied Dodgers president of baseball operations Andrew Friedman and Gomes to sign Heyward once it became clear his time with the Chicago Cubs would be coming to an end.
Freeman additionally mentioned he and Heyward have been going through offseason workouts together of late.
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