Freddie Freeman has been an unstoppable force for the Los Angeles Dodgers in the World Series, playing a heroic role against the New York Yankees. His power at the plate has made him a standout in the Fall Classic, and at age 35, Freeman has become a hero both on and off the field.
But who knows how Freeman’s life would have changed if he hadn’t played the role of hero much earlier in his life—when he was only 12 years old. Freeman saved his father’s life as a young boy, a courageous act that took place shortly after the family had already faced heartbreak, having lost his mother to cancer.
Freeman is currently the heavy favorite to win World Series MVP after hitting a home run in every game of the series, including a blast in Game 4 tonight that set a new Guinness World Record. However, during an emotional interview with ESPN’s “E:60,” the Dodgers first baseman broke down in tears as he recounted the day that nearly altered his life forever.
“I’m just sitting in that [hospital] room,” Freeman said, his voice breaking as he recalled the difficult memory. “The doctor comes in the room, and I’m with my dad. And he goes, ‘Mr. Freeman, you’re lucky you came to the hospital tonight. If you didn’t come in and would have gone to sleep, you would have most likely died in your sleep.'”
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Freeman’s father, Fred, confirmed just how significant his son’s actions were that night. “Freddie actually saved my life that night,” Fred said matter-of-factly.
Fred had been suffering from congestive heart failure, and Freeman’s decision to bring him to the hospital ended up being a lifesaving move. “I was this close to being parentless at 12 years old,” Freeman concluded, his voice filled with emotion as he reflected on how different his life could have been.
Freeman has faced life’s adversities with the same poise that defines his smooth swing on the baseball field. In addition to saving his father’s life as a child, Freeman has continued to face personal challenges as an adult.
Earlier this season, in late July, he and his wife Chelsea had a major scare when their youngest son, Max, was rushed to the hospital. It was a nightmarish ordeal, and the family later learned that Max, only three years old, had been diagnosed with Guillain-Barre Syndrome, a rare neurological condition that affects the body’s nerves.
Throughout the difficult months that followed, Freeman continued to perform on the field, but his heart was always with his family. Earlier this month, Chelsea shared a heartwarming update, saying that Max had been able to walk into her arms for the first time since his diagnosis. It was a moment of hope for the Freeman family, and one that brought immense joy to them after such a challenging time.
Freddie Freeman’s journey—both on and off the field—has been one of resilience, courage, and strength. He has faced the kind of hardships that could easily break a person, but he has instead emerged stronger, embodying the traits of a true champion.
Whether it’s stepping up to the plate in the biggest moments of the World Series or stepping in to save his father’s life, Freeman has always been someone who can be counted on in times of need.
It’s no wonder that Freeman remains so cool under pressure. The challenges he’s faced in his life have given him a perspective that few can understand, and that inner strength is what continues to drive him—both as a player and as a person.
As he leads the Dodgers through the World Series, Freeman’s story serves as an inspiration, a reminder that true heroism often comes from the hardest moments we face.