How Freddie Freeman played a role in Clayton Kershaw’s All-Star starting nod

Freddie Freeman actually played a role in Brian Snitker naming Clayton Kershaw the starting pitcher for the National League team at the 2022 MLB All-Star Game.

While the American and National League starting lineups and reserve lists were revealed well in advance of the July 19 MLB All-Star Game, it was unknown who would be taking the mound for both teams in the first inning. The day before, it was revealed by Atlanta Braves and NL All-Star team manager Brian Snitker that Dodgers ace Clayton Kershaw is getting the start for the team. But how did Kershaw find out?

As it turns out, Snitker called his former star player for the Braves and current Dodgers first baseman Freddie Freeman. Upon answering the phone, Snitker asked to speak with Kershaw. Freeman then passed the phone to him in the trainer’s room.

Brian Snitker called Freddie Freeman to tell Clayton Kershaw he was the starter for the NL All-Star team

Freeman did confirm that his former manager called him and that he handed the phone over to Kershaw. He also talked about how special it would be to watch Kershaw start the All-Star Game in his home stadium. You can listen to Freeman’s comments in the tweet below, courtesy of Spectrum Sportsnet’s Nikki Kay.

Kershaw never received the opportunity to start an All-Star Game in his previous eight appearances. But now, he has the chance to do so at the ballpark he has called home for the entirety of his 14-year career.

He signed a one-year, $17 million contract to return to the Dodgers for the 2022 season, but becomes a free agent afterward. It will remain to be seen what he decides in regards to his future.

This season, Kershaw recorded a 2.13 ERA, a 0.907 WHIP, 75 strikeouts and 12 walks through 71.2 innings (12 starts).

When you talk about Kershaw receiving his first All-Star Game start, never forget that Snitker had to call Freeman to get in contact with him to give him the news.