Freddie Freeman Focuses on Dodgers’ Three-Peat Quest, Skips World Baseball Classic

The Los Angeles Dodgers captured their second consecutive World Series title in 2025, relying on the consistency and production of their veteran core, with first baseman Freddie Freeman emerging as one of the most dependable forces both at the plate and in the clubhouse.

Freeman, now 36 years old, has thrived in Los Angeles since signing a six-year, $162 million deal in 2022, demonstrating remarkable longevity while continuing to deliver elite offensive numbers and leadership that belies his age in a sport dominated by youth and athleticism.

Last season, Freeman posted a .295 batting average, .367 on-base percentage, and .869 OPS, accompanied by 24 home runs and 90 RBIs across 147 games, reaffirming his status as one of the premier hitters in Major League Baseball and a central figure in the Dodgers’ championship runs.

His performance earned him another All-Star selection and garnered additional National League MVP votes, underscoring not only his individual excellence but also his value as a cornerstone of the Dodgers’ lineup and a mentor for the team’s younger stars.

Freeman’s leadership and steady presence in the clubhouse have been vital to Los Angeles’ pursuit of a third straight championship in 2026, particularly as the Dodgers navigate the challenges of retooling their roster, managing payroll, and balancing veteran and emerging talent.

During the offseason, Freeman has focused on recovering from the grind of a long season, staying fully healthy, and preparing for the physical and mental challenges of his 17th MLB campaign, ensuring that he can remain a stabilizing force for a team with championship aspirations.

The World Baseball Classic, scheduled for March, is also on the horizon, offering an international stage for MLB’s top talents, yet Freeman has opted to forego participation this year, despite having previously represented Team Canada in both 2017 and 2023 in honor of his late mother Rosemary, making his previous commitments deeply personal.

According to Shi Davidi of Sportsnet Canada, Freeman’s decision to skip the tournament is motivated by personal reasons and a desire to focus entirely on the Dodgers’ pursuit of history, highlighting the delicate balance players face between national representation and professional obligations.

Freeman’s choice carries added weight in Canada, where his decision to prioritize Los Angeles over international play is likely to draw scrutiny from fans who previously embraced his contributions to Team Canada and who are still processing the Dodgers’ World Series victory over the Toronto Blue Jays.

Despite any external perceptions, the decision reflects Freeman’s commitment to the Dodgers’ historic quest, as Los Angeles aims to become the first team in decades to capture three consecutive World Series championships—a feat that would cement a modern dynasty in professional baseball.

Freeman’s focus on health and preparation is particularly important given his storied career, which already includes nine All-Star selections, three World Series rings, one regular-season MVP award, one World Series MVP, one Gold Glove, and three Silver Slugger awards, firmly positioning him as a likely Hall of Fame candidate.

As the Dodgers look ahead, having Freeman locked in and fully healthy could prove the difference between merely contending and establishing a dynasty, providing both offensive firepower and veteran leadership capable of guiding the team through a grueling 162-game schedule and high-stakes postseason series.

Freeman’s decision also allows him to manage his workload intelligently, reducing the risk of injury in what could be a physically taxing season, particularly with Los Angeles seeking to maintain its pitching depth, navigate an aging roster, and optimize lineup construction for maximum efficiency.

The 36-year-old’s contributions go beyond statistics, as his calm demeanor and veteran wisdom help stabilize younger players, such as Julio Rodríguez and Gavin Lux, offering guidance during pressure-filled moments that can define playoff success in Major League Baseball.

For the Dodgers, Freeman represents both consistency and versatility, capable of handling a variety of in-game situations at first base, providing leadership in the clubhouse, and serving as a reliable middle-of-the-order bat that can influence pitching strategy against the team.

Fans and analysts alike recognize that Freeman’s presence in the lineup, combined with the emergence of other key contributors like Mookie Betts, Cody Bellinger, and Clayton Kershaw, creates a formidable roster capable of challenging any team in the majors and pursuing the Dodgers’ ambitious three-peat goal.

While some may debate the optics of Freeman skipping the World Baseball Classic, the decision highlights a professional athlete’s need to prioritize longevity, health, and organizational commitments, particularly when a historic championship opportunity is on the line.

Entering his 17th MLB season, Freeman continues to set an example of dedication, preparation, and excellence, demonstrating that age is no barrier when paired with elite skill, a professional mindset, and a championship-driven focus that aligns with the Dodgers’ overarching mission.

Ultimately, Freddie Freeman’s offseason decisions, health, and preparation will be central to the Dodgers’ ambitions in 2026, as the team seeks to write a new chapter in baseball history, achieve unprecedented success, and establish one of the most dominant modern-era dynasties in professional sports.