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The Yankees wanted Freddie Freeman in free agency, but the Dodgers star didn’t want to go
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The Yankees wanted Freddie Freeman in free agency, but the Dodgers star didn’t want to go

Freddie Freeman he gave the New York Yankees more than they could handle in all five games of the World Series against the Los Angeles Dodgers.

The first baseman made history by hitting the first grand slam World Series History to start the 2024 series. Just three games later in Game 4, Freeman hit a first-inning home run, further solidifying his legacy.

Despite the Dodgers losing that one contest to the New York Yankees, Freeman set a remarkable record as the first player to hit a home run in six consecutive World Series games. This impressive streak began in 2021 when he played for the Atlanta Braves.

Imagine if Freeman received an offer from the Yankees before signing with the Dodgers?

As it turns out, the New York Yankees pursued Freeman after the 2021 season when he became a free agent.

By the time he submitted offers, Freeman had established himself as a five-time National League All-Star, Gold Glove winner, three-time NL Silver Slugger and reigning World Series champion. He could sign anywhere.

But according to the New York Post, the California native has his sights set on two destinations.

As that winter approached, the Yankees were rumored to be considering a potential $180 million deal for Freeman. Although he was born in Southern California, Freeman had a deep affection for his time with the Braves.

“He didn’t want to come here,” a Yankees official said New York Post. “He wanted to stay in Atlanta, and if he couldn’t stay in Atlanta, he wanted to go to LA.”

Before Game 4, Freeman was approached by The Post but chose not to comment on his geographic preferences. This was understandable as he was focused on preparing for the potential Series clincher.

“I had a conversation with (GM Brian Cashman). They never made an offer,” Freeman said The post.

Cashman recalled a Zoom meeting he and manager Aaron Boone had with Freeman, noting that they ultimately couldn’t come to an agreement. After negotiations with the Braves fell through, Freeman signed a deferred agreement with the Dodgers worth $162 million over six years, valued between $140 million and $145 million.

The rest is now history, Dodgers history.