Dodgers' Freddie Freeman ends early slump with surprise hug

Dodgers star snaps 0-for-8 skid with second-inning single, then gets tagged out in unusual play.

Mar. 29, 2026 at 4:08am

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Los Angeles Dodgers first baseman Freddie Freeman finally broke out of an early-season slump, recording his first hit of the 2026 campaign with a single in the second inning. However, his hit was followed by an unusual play where he was tagged out after receiving a surprise hug from an opposing player on the basepaths.

Why it matters

Freeman is a key offensive player for the Dodgers, so his early struggles at the plate were concerning for the team and its fans. This play highlights the unpredictable nature of baseball and the human element that can sometimes lead to quirky, memorable moments on the field.

The details

After starting the season 0-for-8, Freeman singled in the second inning to record his first hit. Two outs later, he was caught in a rundown and appeared to be tagged out. However, replays showed that an opposing player had embraced Freeman in a hug, leading to the unusual out call.

  • The incident occurred in the second inning of the Dodgers' game on March 29, 2026.

The players

Freddie Freeman

A veteran first baseman and key offensive player for the Los Angeles Dodgers.

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What they’re saying

“I've never seen anything like that in my 20 years in the game. Just a weird, unexpected play that you have to laugh about.”

— Dave Roberts, Dodgers Manager

The takeaway

While the out call was unusual, it served as a lighthearted moment in an early-season game and a reminder that baseball can produce unexpected, memorable plays at any time.