Alex Freeland to Vie for Dodgers Second Base Spot with Edman Injured

Dodgers infielder Alex Freeland, 24, a former third-round draft pick and top prospect, is set to compete for playing time at second base following Tommy Edman's confirmed absence for Opening Day. In his 29 big-league games last season, Freeland showed flashes of potential, including back-to-back home runs, but struggled overall, batting .190 with 35 strikeouts in 97 plate appearances. Manager Dave Roberts noted the game "sped up" on him, and Freeland is focused on learning from his rookie struggles to earn an immediate redemption opportunity.