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The Atlanta Braves were victorious in the World Series last year, thanks in large part to the efforts of first baseman Freddie Freeman. Freeman was excellent all postseason long for the Braves, coming up with some timely hits, including two homers in the Fall Classic, to help Atlanta to their first title since 1995. At the time, the first order of business for the Braves in the offense was to address their free agents, most notable of them- Freddie Freeman. Even if Freeman was a recent addition, his contributions across the regular and postseasons should have been enough for Atlanta to pay up for a new contract. But it wasn't. Of course, the MLB lockout has complicated things, though the Braves have yet to agree to a deal with Freeman, who is now rumored to be seeking out other teams for a potential change of scenery after the lockout. That would be disastrous for Atlanta, who has been the only franchise Freeman has ever known. The Braves should be ashamed it's gotten to this point.
Freeman, 32, isn't getting any younger. However, think of it this way. The Braves are all he has known since his rookie year in 2010. In 12 seasons, Freeman has provided the kind of steady production out of the first base spot that other teams have dreamed of. The lefty slugger has batted over .300 six times, has clubbed 30 or more homers three times and has secured an MVP award while making five All-Star teams. Not only that, but the Braves star has a Gold Glove to his name.
Accolades are great and Freeman certainly has those. However, to be a franchise star, one has to want that title and genuinely love playing where he is. Freeman loves being in Atlanta. He said as much right after the World Series. Imagine that. The Braves' best player, after helping the team to their first championship in nearly 30 years, announcing to the world that he doesn't want to go anywhere and that Atlanta is “where his heart is.” Shouldn't that have been enough for the Braves to offer the free agent a new deal no matter the cost?
It should have been. But it wasn't.
And the Braves should be ashamed.
