Freddie Freeman was a mainstay in the Atlanta Braves organization until he agreed to a six-year deal with the Los Angeles Dodgers, where he helped the team win the World Series in 2021.

Although Freeman was a cornerstone of the Braves organization, in recent years, Ronald Acuña Jr. has taken center stage. However, in the summer of 2021, Acuña tore his ACL in his right knee, which prevented him from playing when the Braves made an unlikely push for the World Series.

Since joining the Dodgers, Freeman and Mookie Betts—a talented leadoff hitter in his own right—have developed an All-Star partnership.

Acuña, Betts, and Freeman were the trio of National League MVP Award contenders, having all had outstanding seasons in 2023. As expected, Acuña was victorious, garnering unanimous votes for the NL MVP award.

During an appearance on MLB Network for the MVP announcement, Freeman talked about his career and the opportunities he’s had to play with both Acuña and Betts. He spoke highly of their individual talents:

It’s quite unique. Observing Ronald from his inception, it was evident that he would develop into a potent player. The last few years, as well as plainly observing Mookie from a distance, have shown how exceptional these individuals can be when playing baseball. Being in the same generation as these guys is amazing to me as a baseball fan because I get to play at the same time as them and watch them play and go about their business like I’ve been able to.

Being the first player in MLB history to have 30 home runs and 60 stolen bases in a single season helped Acuña win the MVP award. With 41 home runs and 73 stolen bases at the end of the season, Acuña set even higher standards for himself.

When he first entered the record books at Dodger Stadium, the Braves All-Star swiped bases and hit grand slams. To celebrate the achievement, Freeman gave Acuña a base the next day on behalf of the Dodgers.

In a video released by the Braves, Freeman stated, “We wanted to give you the base so you’ll always remember the day you did it.” Furthermore, I wanted to be the one to give it to you. Best wishes. That is fantastic. One and only for all time.

Betts hit.307/.408/.579 despite missing out on the 2023 NL MVP award, with 40 doubles, 39 home runs, 107 RBI, 14 stolen bases, 126 runs scored, and a 167 wRC+.

In terms of wRC+, OPS+ (163), doubles, slugging percentage, on-base plus slugging (.987), and extra-base hits (80), Betts ended up in the top three in the NL. He also broke the record for most RBI from the leadoff position in the MLB.

Additionally, Betts demonstrated his exceptional versatility by playing shortstop and second base with ease.

Dave Roberts: MVP was overshadowed by Freddie FreemanFreeman finished a distant third for NL MVP consideration, with Acuña creating MLB history and Betts having a standout season.

However, Dodgers manager Dave Roberts acknowledged Freeman’s accomplishments and saw him as a deserving MVP contender.

Throughout the season, Roberts stated, “I think if you look at Freddie’s career, a lot of it has gone unnoticed.” “I believe that even in Atlanta, people recognize his abilities and output, but in the baseball community, I believe that sometimes people take his reliability for granted.

“His game isn’t about self-promotion. All he wants is to compete and succeed. He is, in my opinion, at the forefront of the discussion when it comes to the most valuable players.