Already missing one MVP from their lineup, the Los Angeles Dodgers find themselves without a second as they kick off the MLB season in Japan.
First baseman was a late scratch just before the first pitch against the Chicago Cubs due to left rib discomfort, according to the team.
The popstar, the 2020 NL MVP, was dealing with an ankle injury during last year’s World Series but still managed to earn MVP honors. He underwent ankle surgery after the series and had limited participation early in spring training. However, he appeared in four consecutive Cactus League games before the Dodgers departed for Japan.
With Freeman out, Kike Hernandez shifted from left field to first base in Tuesday’s restructured lineup, while Michael Conforto, originally not slated to start, took over in left field against Cubs pitcher Shōta Imanaga.