Dodgers: A Freddie Freeman contract to beat out the Braves

When it comes to the Freddie Freeman sweepstakes, you can not rule out the Los Angeles Dodgers signing him away from the Atlanta Braves.

The Atlanta Braves are still enjoying their first World Series title since 1995, but fans are a bit nervous when it comes to the contract negotiations with Freddie Freeman. Of course, no move is going to be made for the foreseeable future with the lockout still in effect. But, there was one report that should worry Braves fans.

Freeman is reportedly looking for a six-year contract, worth $180 million, but Atlanta supposedly is unwilling to give him a deal that lengthy. That could create a situation where Freeman could end up signing elsewhere.

One team to keep an eye on is the Los Angeles Dodgers. Here is how they can do so.

Dodgers: A Freddie Freeman contract that works for everyone

The Dodgers have shown in recent years that they are always willing to either hand out huge checks to players or trading away prized prospects for a star deadline acquisition. It just so happens that the Dodgers are in need of a first baseman with Albert Pujols hitting free agency. Not to mention they lost Corey Seager and Max Scherzer this offseason, who signed huge contracts with the Texas Rangers and New York Mets, respectively.

Given that Freeman is looking for a six-year, $180 million contract, it is an easy task for Los Angeles. But if they want to pull away from the pack from other teams in need of a first baseman (i.e. New York Yankees), they can always add an additional year with extra money.

Of course, that will be if the Dodgers want to blow further past the luxury tax threshold. According to Spotrac, the Dodgers are already $22 million past the threshold. But, it is important to note that they could free up space if Trea Turner is to sign elsewhere after the 2022 season.

If the Dodgers want to contend for a World Series in 2022 and in the process steal a great player away from a National League rival, then they should totally try to outbid the Braves for the Freeman.