MLB gifts Freddie Freeman a major distraction from agent drama

Freddie Freeman will get a distraction from the agent drama, as he will be playing in the 2022 MLB All-Star Game.

Los Angeles Dodgers first baseman Freddie Freeman has been in the news lately over drama with agent Casey Close. ESPN’s Buster Olney broke the news that Freeman was changing representation after telling friends that he was “angry with how his free agency negotiations played out.” Then, FOX Sports’ Doug Gottlieb claimed that Close withheld an offer from the Atlanta Braves, which the agent vehemently denied.

Freeman received a break from the agency drama, as he was selected to play in the 2022 MLB All-Star Game. He will be replacing New York Mets outfielder Starling Marte on the National League team.

Freddie Freeman named to 2022 MLB All-Star team

Recently, Close filed a lawsuit against Gottlieb for libel, claiming that the radio host defamed him and Excel Sports Management. Close also said that Gottlieb’s claims were “false” and that he received death threats as a result.

Prior to this, Clsoe released a statement, claiming that the Braves were trying to create a “false narrative” about Freeman’s exit.

This past offseason, the Braves and Freeman were unable to reach an agreement on a new deal, stemming mostly from the term of a contract. Atlanta moved on, pulling off a massive trade with the Oakland Athletics for first baseman Matt Olson, and subsequently signed him to an eight-year, $168 million contract. Freeman then signed a six-year, $162 million contract with the Dodgers.

Freeman is slashing .321/.397/.530 while recording 13 home runs, 59 RBI, and a league-leading114 hits through 90 games with Los Angeles.

Even though Freeman was not named a starter on the NL All-Star team, he was named a late replacement for Marte. Luckily for him, he will not have to travel far, as the All-Star Game takes place on July 19, live from Dodger Stadium.