Dodger Place David Freese on 10-Day IL With Hamstring Strain
By Brian Cass
In fielder David Freese has been dealing with a hamstring issue recently, and some analysts have speculated if the Los Angeles Dodgers would place their first baseman on the IL.
On Sunday, their speculation became true as the Dodgers sent Freese to the IL with a left hamstring strain. He's been important to his ball clubs success this season, so the Dodgers are hoping that this placement on the shelf will prevent further issues with the hamstring as they prepare for a deep postseason run.
The Dodgers today recalled catcher Will Smith and placed IF David Freese on the 10-day injured list, retroactive to June 21, with a left hamstring strain.
— Los Angeles Dodgers (@Dodgers) June 23, 2019
In a corresponding move, the team has recalled catcher Will Smith to fill his roster spot.
Freese has been one of best hitters for LA this season, posting a slash line of .308/.407/592 and notching 8 home runs over his 140 plate appearances. While he's not an everyday player, he's stepped into his utility role with grace.
Throughout his career, the 36-year-old Freese has mostly played at third base. This season with the Dodgers, Freese has thrived in his reserved role at first, as he's appeared in more games at 1B than any other Dodger this season.
David Freese was unavailable with more knee issues that could put him on the injured list.
— Ken Gurnick (@kengurnick) June 23, 2019
Although his production has been paramount to the Dodgers' success this season, they should have no problem finding an adequate replacement for him while he's on the IL. Max Muncy, Cody Bellinger, Matt Beaty, Enrique Hernandez and Joc Pederson have all spent time at first this season and all have proved they're more than capable filling in when called upon.