LOS ANGELES — The Dodgers’ five-day break leading up to the World Series has come at an ideal moment for Freddie Freeman, the All-Star first baseman.

Freeman, who sat out two of the last three games in the National League Championship Series due to a severely sprained ankle, confirmed on Tuesday that he will be ready to play in Game 1 of the World Series against the New York Yankees, set for Friday night at 8 p.m. ET on Fox.

“I’m definitely 100% ready to go for Game 1,” Freeman stated. “There’s no doubt in anyone’s mind that I’ll be in the lineup.”

Having spent 4.5 hours each day undergoing treatment since injuring his ankle on September 26, Freeman only managed a .167 batting average (3-for-18) in the NLCS and has not recorded any extra-base hits this postseason.

“I’ll regain my power with a proper swing,” Freeman explained, reflecting on his season which included 22 home runs and 35 doubles. “Right now, I’m just lacking power.”

However, Freeman believes that the additional rest might be just what he needs to reclaim his form.

“Being able to rest and not put weight on my feet is crucial during this time,” he shared. “I can still hit and do everything else. The key issue is when I take that first run-step, which aggravates my ankle. Now that it’s been three days of not running and focusing on treatment, I’m optimistic.”

In the two games Freeman was absent, the Dodgers scored a total of 20 runs, with Max Muncy filling in at first base. Yet, there’s no denying that the team performs better with the eight-time All-Star and Gold Glove winner on the field.

“He’s one of the most reliable hitters of the past 15 years,” Muncy praised. “He boasts a .300 average, a wealth of doubles, and can drive in 100 runs annually. He’s a complete player offensively.”

Muncy highlighted the importance of having Freeman back in the lineup, especially given the key hits he has delivered in clutch situations throughout his career. “At this time of year, his value to the team is immeasurable, and we’re thrilled to have him back.”

Dodgers manager Dave Roberts noted that the time off has been “huge” for Freeman’s recovery, expressing optimism that it will allow Freeman to not only regain his swing but also play the full game without needing any defensive substitutions.

“I feel good about where his swing is at,” Roberts commented, “but we’ll see how long he can maintain it.”

This time around, instead of managing his injury during the Dodgers’ clinching victory for a World Series spot, Freeman looks forward to celebrating with his teammates, knowing he has the winter to recuperate.

“Not being able to participate in Game 6 last year was tough for him,” Roberts noted. “However, we are grateful for the extra four days to help his ankle heal. I believe that will be beneficial. Mentally, he’s in a good place, feeling anxious but optimistic about the ankle, and I have no doubt he’ll be ready for Game 1.”

“Hopefully, we’re out of the woods now, and we can manage him throughout the World Series.”

In addition to Freeman’s news, the Dodgers announced that Jack Flaherty, a lifelong Dodgers fan, will pitch in Game 1 of the World Series.

Interestingly, Flaherty was nearly traded to the Yankees earlier this season, but the deal fell through due to concerns over his physical condition. This allowed him to join the Dodgers instead.

“There’s been a lot going on regarding the trade deadline, but I’m glad to be part of this team here in L.A.,” Flaherty expressed.

Since joining the Dodgers, Flaherty has emerged as the team’s ace amid numerous injuries, compiling a record of 6-2 with a 3.58 ERA over ten starts. He suffered a loss in his only start in the NL Division Series but rebounded with a seven-inning shutout performance in Game 1 of the NLCS, before facing challenges in Game 5.

Regardless, Roberts and the front office are confident in their choice for Game 1. Yoshinobu Yamamoto will pitch in Game 2, and they may use a bullpen game or call on Walker Buehler for Game 3.

“We’re working to give both pitchers the best opportunities in this World Series,” Roberts explained, “making sure that they have proper rest and are placed strategically.”

Flaherty could pitch again on regular rest in Game 5, with Yamamoto lined up for Game 6.

The Dodgers are hopeful that left-handed reliever Alex Vesia, who missed the NLCS due to a calf injury, could be available for the World Series roster, and they are also keeping an eye on right-handed reliever Brusdar Graterol’s situation.

“Both players are improving,” Roberts noted. “For these two, we’ll need to make a decision close to game time to see if they are available.”

The Dodgers are eager to have Vesia back, as he would complement Anthony Banda, giving them a duo of left-handed pitchers in the bullpen.

In addition to this, the Dodgers could also bring in shortstop Miguel Rojas, with their World Series rosters needing to be finalized by Friday morning.

However, one choice has been certainly decided.

Freeman is ready to return, and regardless of how much discomfort he experiences, he plans to play.

“We have tremendous respect for his approach and dedication,” Dodgers center fielder Kevin Kiermaier commented earlier in the postseason. “He’s truly a warrior. What he’s accomplished is simply incredible.”