Freddie Freeman Returns Home Again: Dodgers Face Braves in Atlanta

The long time Atlanta star will face emotions once again.

Another emotional reunion is on deck as Freddie Freeman, now with the Dodgers, returns to Atlanta to face the Braves. This will be only the second time he's playing in front of his home crowd since joining the Dodgers ahead of the 2022 season.

The last time Freeman visited Atlanta, it was a big deal. He had spent 12 years of his career with the Braves and they had just brought home a World Series championship.

Freeman said he expected to be a Brave for life but circumstances led to an unceremonious parting of ways during contract negotiations.

When the Dodgers visited Atlanta last June, Freeman couldn't help but shed tears. First during a pregame press conference...

...then during his introduction and ring ceremony.

It was an emotional visit that he later apologized to his new Dodgers teammates for. It was also a moment he needed to overcome the pain of the sudden breakup. In a recent interview, he expressed that this year's visit feels different.

"It's a little bit different. I'm looking forward to it. I had so many special times there. Being a World Series champion with the Atlanta Braves, I have so many cherished memories. I can't wait to see some of my old friends again. I'm excited, although there probably won't be as many tears this time around. It'll be a different experience."

Despite his words, it's almost certain that Freeman will be overwhelmed when he receives his first standing ovation on Monday night. Last year, his initial ovation lasted for just over a minute, and this time won't be any easier for him. The love and appreciation from the Atlanta fans will surely touch his heart once again.