The Dodgers’ struggles are deepening.
Freddie Freeman, the star first baseman, exited Sunday’s game against the Brewers after getting hit by a pitch in the sixth inning. The World Series MVP took an 88-mph sinker from Milwaukee pitcher Jose Quintana, and he immediately started toward the dugout, looking pained.
Not long after, the Dodgers confirmed that Freeman, 35, would not be returning for the game, which they ultimately lost 6-5 at Dodger Stadium.
This season, Freeman has posted a .294 batting average, along with 10 home runs and 49 RBIs, resulting in a 135 OPS+. Still, his performance has taken a dip; since early June, he’s been batting just .201 after a solid start.
Meanwhile, the Dodgers find themselves in a slump, despite having plenty of talent on their roster. Sunday’s loss meant they were swept by the Brewers, marking a troubling stretch where they’ve lost 10 out of their last 12 games.
As a result, Los Angeles, once the leaders of the National League West, now faces tough competition, with the second-place Padres and third-place Giants closing in, sitting just 3½ games back.
The team is further challenged by multiple injuries affecting both the pitching lineup and position players. With pitchers like Blake Snell, Blake Treinen, Saga Roki, Michael Kopech, Tony Gonsolin, and Evan Phillips all out due to various arm and shoulder issues, it’s clear they’re struggling.
Additionally, they’re missing key position players, including Max Muncy and Kike Hernandez, both dealing with injuries of their own.
Despite these setbacks, the Dodgers are hopeful about turning things around. They have a three-game homestand against the Twins upcoming, which will be followed by a nine-game road trip that includes matchups with the Red Sox, Reds, and Rays.
