Freddie Freeman, the veteran first baseman for the Los Angeles Dodgers, has achieved a remarkable feat in his age-36 season. He has become the only active player to accumulate 2,500 career hits, a testament to his enduring excellence in Major League Baseball. This achievement is all the more impressive considering the company he keeps. Astros star Jose Altuve, currently at 2,430 hits in his 16th season, could soon join Freeman in this exclusive club. Altuve, like Freeman, is also 36 years old, adding to the significance of these milestones.
Freeman's 69th hit of the season, an RBI single in a 10-run seventh inning, secured his place in history. With a hard-hit rate of 46.4% and an xwOBA in the 83rd percentile, he is demonstrating his continued prowess at the plate. These statistics showcase his ability to consistently make solid contact and drive the ball hard, which is a rare and valuable skill in today's game.
The nine-time All-Star and 2020 NL MVP is on a path that could lead to the Hall of Fame. Reaching 3,000 career hits, a milestone achieved by only 33 other players, would further solidify his legacy. Additionally, with 377 home runs under his belt, Freeman is well on his way to reaching 400 career home runs, a feat that would cement his status as one of the game's all-time greats.
Freeman's dedication to his craft is evident in his words. He expressed his desire to continue playing for three more seasons, driven by his passion for being the best hitter he can be. The birth of his first daughter in April may influence his decision, but his determination to reach personal accolades remains unwavering. Freeman's journey is a reminder that age is just a number, and his accomplishments serve as an inspiration to aspiring athletes everywhere.
