Freddie Freeman's final play as a member of the Atlanta Braves was receiving the throw from shortstop Dansby Swanson that clinched a World Series title for the team.
The former National League MVP didn't think that the Braves would go in another direction after he helped them to win their fourth World Series in franchise history, but that's ultimately how things played out. And with some additional time to reflect, Freeman is at peace with that.
As Freeman prepares for his first season as a member of the Los Angeles Dodgers, the five-time All-Star took some time to discuss his time in Atlanta coming to an end after 12 seasons in a piece done with MLB.com's Mark Bowman:
"First of all, my relationship with (Braves president of baseball operations) Alex Anthopoulos remains great. When we spoke earlier this week, I told Alex how much I enjoyed my time in Atlanta, especially last year when we all experienced the thrill of winning a World Series. I also apologized for some of the comments I made during my introductory press conference with the Dodgers. It was a very emotional week for my family and I.
"Everyone should know my wife, Chelsea, and I will always have the utmost respect for the entire Braves organization and the city of Atlanta. My family and I loved every minute we had in Atlanta. We envisioned our future there, which is why it was such an emotional week for us. However, we truly believe that God has a plan and everything happens for a reason. We believe that we are exactly where we are supposed to be with the Los Angeles Dodgers organization."
Given that Freeman is entering his age-32 season, Anthopoulos and the Braves were seemingly unwilling to guarantee a sixth year to Freeman, despite his place as one of the better players in franchise history. According to ESPN's Buster Olney, the Braves also declined a five-year/$165 million offer that was briefly on the table from Freeman's camp as well.
With Freeman still on the market, the Braves pivoted at first base, acquiring two-time Gold Glove Award winner Matt Olson in a trade with the Oakland Athletics. On the way in the door, Olson -- who will turn 28 this week -- signed a new eight-year/$168 million deal with the Braves.
Things ultimately worked out for Freeman, who agreed to a six-year/$162 million deal with the Dodgers, the team he grew up rooting for. He told Bowman that he "wishes Olson and his family nothing but the best."
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