The Los Angeles Dodgers swept the Chicago Cubs in a doubleheader on Saturday, and in the process, Freddie Freeman made franchise history with his performance.
In the first game of the day, the Dodgers shut out the Cubs, 7-0, backed by seven innings from Clayton Kershaw and an all-around strong offensive showing at the plate.
Freeman led the Dodgers lineup with three doubles in four at-bats while scoring two runs. Freeman’s contributions on offense made him the first player in Dodgers franchise history with three doubles in a single game at Wrigley Field.
Freeman’s first double gave the Dodgers a 1-0 lead before Kershaw threw a pitch. His second extra-base hit helped set the table for an eventual Justin Turner two-run double. Freeman’s third double may have been a home run if not for the wind blowing in off Lake Michigan.
Though, the weather also aided Freeman as his fly ball was pushed just out of the reach of Cubs center fielder Michael Hermosillo.
In the night cap of the doubleheader, Freeman added a single and walk in his five plate appearances as the Dodgers won 6-2 while only picking up three hits, with the other two coming from Mookie Betts.
The 32-year-old first baseman has been a consistent presence at the top of the Dodgers’ order this season and after the doubleheader he is now hitting .316/.400/.516 with three home runs and 17 runs scored.
Bellinger praises Freeman
Cody Bellinger recently called Freeman “one of the most consistent and best players” in baseball, and it’s clear to see why his teammates think so highly of him.
The 2020 National League MVP leads the Dodgers in batting average, on-base percentage, slugging percentage, hits (30), doubles (eight) and is tied for first with one triple.
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