Freddie Freeman on his approach to hitting Chris Sale: 'You've got to be prepared to die'
Yahoo Sports • • sports
Key Points:
- Chris Sale has been highly effective against left-handed hitters throughout his career, limiting them to a .285 slugging percentage due to his unique arm slot and pitching style.
- Dodgers first baseman Freddie Freeman has been an exception, batting .313 with two home runs in 16 regular-season at-bats against Sale.
- In the NLDS, Freeman hit a solo home run off Sale, contributing to the Dodgers' 3-1 victory over the Braves.
- Freeman described facing Sale as a high-risk challenge, stating hitters must be fully committed and prepared to "die" in the batter's box, meaning they must stay focused and not bail out even if a pitch seems threatening.
- This mindset reflects the difficulty lefties face against Sale's pitching, as staying in the box and being ready for his pitches is crucial to avoid striking out or being at a disadvantage.
