Freeland's performance highlights the Dodgers' second consecutive win, overshadowing Kim Hyesung's demotion to Triple-A.
Category: Sports
The LA Dodgers triumphed over the Arizona Diamondbacks 5-4 on March 28, 2026, at Uniqlo Field at Dodger Stadium, marking their second consecutive victory of the season.
In a game that saw the Dodgers rally from an early deficit, Alex Freeland, who secured a spot on the opening roster at the expense of Kim Hyesung, made a notable impact. The Dodgers' starting lineup included Shohei Ohtani, Kyle Tucker, Mookie Betts, Freddie Freeman, Will Smith, Max Muncy, Teoscar Hernández, Andy Pahes, and Freeland himself. Starting pitcher Emmitt Sheehan struggled, lasting just 3.1 innings, allowing four runs on five hits, including a home run.
The Diamondbacks took an early lead, scoring two runs in the second and third innings, with Ketel Marte hitting a solo homer that put them ahead 2-0. Freeland, making his first start of the season, responded dramatically in the bottom of the third. After falling behind, he launched a solo home run, his first hit of the season, to cut the deficit to 2-1. This set the stage for Mookie Betts, who followed with a three-run homer that flipped the score to 4-2 in favor of the Dodgers.
Freeland's contributions didn't stop at the plate; he showcased his defensive skills as well. In the second inning, he made a key home throw that prevented a run, and in the fourth, he executed a perfect throw to third base to cut down a runner. The Diamondbacks managed to tie the game at 4-4 in the fourth inning, but the Dodgers regained the lead in the eighth.
In a decisive moment, Freeland led off the eighth with a double, setting up Kyle Tucker's RBI single that brought him home, giving the Dodgers a 5-4 advantage. Edwin Díaz came in to close the game, securing the save with a flawless ninth inning.
Freeland finished the game with an impressive line: two hits in three at-bats, one RBI, and two runs scored. His performance stands in stark relief to that of Kim Hyesung, who was demoted to Triple-A after a strong spring training showing, where he posted a .407 batting average, one home run, six RBIs, and eight runs scored across nine games. Hyesung played in the season opener for the Oklahoma City Dodgers, going one for five with a run scored.
Dodgers manager Dave Roberts had expressed confidence in Freeland, noting that his defensive capabilities and previous Triple-A performance warranted a spot on the roster. "Freeland's defense was excellent. Considering what he showed in Triple-A, I felt he deserved a chance," Roberts said. This decision has sparked discussions among fans and analysts about the team's direction and player management strategies.
As the Dodgers look forward to continuing their winning streak, Freeland's ability to deliver under pressure will be closely watched. The team is now preparing for their next challenge, hoping to build on this momentum and solidify their standing in the league as the season progresses.