Freddie Freeman Embraces Ketel Marte After Dodgers Win

The Dodgers first baseman explains the on-field hug with the Diamondbacks All-Star.

Mar. 29, 2026 at 4:33pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A cubist, geometric painting depicting the embrace between Dodgers first baseman Freddie Freeman and Diamondbacks second baseman Ketel Marte, with the players' forms broken down into sharp, overlapping planes of vibrant colors.The warm embrace between Freddie Freeman and Ketel Marte reflects the camaraderie and sportsmanship that can exist between players, even on opposing teams.San Diego Today

Los Angeles Dodgers first baseman Freddie Freeman made headlines after an on-field embrace with Arizona Diamondbacks All-Star second baseman Ketel Marte following the Dodgers' series finale win. Freeman explained that with Marte blocking his path back to the base, he decided to just go in for a hug to end the inning.

Why it matters

The light-hearted moment between the two players reflects the camaraderie and sportsmanship often seen in baseball, even between opposing teams. As the Dodgers continue their strong start to the season, these types of interactions can help build momentum and goodwill for the team.

The details

In the bottom of the second inning, Freeman got his first hit of the season, singling to right field. With two outs, Santiago Espinal grounded the ball to Marte, who fielded it right in front of Freeman. Marte then turned towards Freeman, blocking the base path and outstretching his arms for a hug. After a brief pause, Freeman walked towards Marte and the two embraced to end the inning.

  • The incident occurred in the bottom of the second inning of the Dodgers' series finale against the Diamondbacks on March 29, 2026.

The players

Freddie Freeman

The Los Angeles Dodgers first baseman and former MVP, known for his friendly demeanor on the field.

Ketel Marte

The Arizona Diamondbacks All-Star second baseman who embraced Freeman after fielding a ground ball in front of him.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“I stopped, and I was like, is there any way around this? If I go out of the baseline, I'm out. If I run back, he'll just run to second. He gave me a little, 'Come here,' and I was like, 'All right, let's just do it.'”

— Freddie Freeman, Los Angeles Dodgers First Baseman

“I'm very much a hugger. Emotional man over here.”

— Freddie Freeman, Los Angeles Dodgers First Baseman

What’s next

The Dodgers will host the Cleveland Guardians for a three-game series starting on Monday, March 31. Roki Sasaki, Shohei Ohtani and Yoshinobu Yamamoto are scheduled to start the games for the Dodgers.

The takeaway

The lighthearted moment between Freeman and Marte showcases the camaraderie and sportsmanship that can exist between players, even on opposing teams. As the Dodgers continue their strong start to the season, these types of positive interactions can help build momentum and goodwill for the team.