Los Angeles Dodgers superstar Freddie Freeman has made a sudden and unexpected decision to withdraw from the upcoming World Baseball Classic, citing unspecified personal reasons.
Freeman's Withdrawal and Family Health Challenges
The first baseman was set to represent Canada for the third consecutive tournament this March, just weeks before the commencement of the 2026 Major League Baseball season. The news was first broken by Sportsnet journalist Shi Davidi on social media platform X.
While no detailed explanation has been provided, the decision comes against a backdrop of significant family health struggles. In the past year, Freeman's three-year-old son, Max, was diagnosed with Guillain-Barre syndrome, a rare neurological disorder that initially caused full-body paralysis.
The Freeman family endured an immensely challenging period, with Max requiring care in a paediatric intensive care unit. Freeman's wife, Chelsea, kept the public informed during this private ordeal. Fortunately, the child has made a substantial recovery, with Chelsea stating ahead of the 2025 season that Max was approximately 80 percent recovered.
Injury Concerns and Manager's Comments
It remains unclear if his son's ongoing health is directly linked to Freeman's withdrawal from the international competition. However, given the impending gruelling 162-game season with the Dodgers, a desire to prioritise family time would be understandable.
This is not the first health crisis Freeman has faced within his family. His mother passed away from cancer when he was just ten years old, after a six-year battle that began with a melanoma diagnosis.
Compounding the personal considerations, Freeman has also been managing physical ailments. In December, coaches informed Baseball Canada that the player was dealing with a little bit of a health issue but remained keen to participate. Canada's manager, Ernie Whitt, later revealed Freeman was having some procedures done, though the exact nature of the issues is unknown.
During the 2025 season, Freeman played through a lingering ankle injury from the previous year, which did not prevent him from helping the Dodgers secure another World Series championship.
Impact on Team Canada and the Season Ahead
Freeman's absence is a significant blow to the Canadian national team, which will now be without one of its most experienced and decorated players for the prestigious tournament. The three-time World Series champion has been a cornerstone of their lineup in previous editions.
All eyes will now be on Freeman's preparation for the Dodgers' 2026 campaign, with fans and management hoping the extra time afforded by this decision will ensure he is fully fit and ready for the marathon season ahead.
