Braves 2021 Player Previews: Can Freddie Freeman repeat as MVP in 2021?

The Atlanta Braves All-Star and NL MVP hopes to build upon an incredible 2020 campaign.

Fans of the Atlanta Braves already know that they can expect consistency and an infectious smile from their star first baseman, Freddie Freeman.

However, in 2020, he also proved to all of Major League Baseball that he is much more than just one of the “good guys” of the league. He’s also one of the best to play in it as well.

We’ve all come to expect big production from Freeman in a Braves uniform. He’s no stranger to coming through in big moments. An elbow issued plagued him a bit in 2019 and seemingly led to a major decrease in production throughout the playoffs.

In the off-season, Freeman underwent surgery to remove bone spurs in his elbow, which worried many fans. The concern was that it could affect his ability to drive the baseball.

The concern over his 2020 season elevated when he was diagnosed with Covid-19 before the 60-game season began in July.

Fortunately for all of us, that worry was put to bed as Freddie Freeman had one of the best seasons he’s ever had. He came through in almost every moment that we needed him to.

Not to mention, he looked like he had a lot of fun doing it.

Marcel Ozuna’s presence protected Freeman in the lineup and with how well Marcel hit behind him, he saw a lot of pitches that he could handle.

Is it possible that with Ozuna’s return that Freeman could repeat as MVP?

It won’t be an easy feat to accomplish but if anyone has the ability to pull it off, it’s Freddie Freeman.

Let’s take a glance at his astonishing stat line from 2020.

In 214 at-bats, he produced a slash line of .341/.462/.640 and a 1.102 OPS with 73 hits including 13 home runs and 53 RBI.

Freeman also led the league in doubles (23) and runs scored (51). If he found himself on base, he pretty much always scored. You can’t ask for more than that from your franchise first baseman.

I personally believe that he has an excellent and realistic chance at repeating as MVP in 2021. Barring any obstacles such as injury, illness, etc, of course.

He has the attitude and skill set that is necessary to achieve a repeat season worthy of an MVP award. You cannot say the same for others in the league.

There is no doubt in my mind that Freddie will perform similarly to his 2020 campaign. He is in the prime of his career and I don’t see him taking his foot off the gas just yet. He is determined to help this team make it to and win the World Series.

He prepares himself well for each game and carries the right approach at the plate. He isn’t trying to do anything other than stay inside the baseball and make solid contact. That approach has continually benefitted him in his career.

This is his final contracted season with Atlanta (an extension has not been offered yet) and I’d imagine that would be a nice motivation for him to repeat a season similar to 2020.

Though, if you ask me, he will be offered that extension sooner rather than later. I can’t imagine him playing anywhere else than Atlanta. When you think of the Atlanta Braves, you think Freddie Freeman.

We are incredibly lucky as Atlanta Braves fans to be able to witness Freeman in the prime of his career. Let’s hope the rest of the league and mainstream sports media finally takes notice.

This could be the year that he solidifies his place as a future hall-of-fame inductee. I don’t there is any doubt that he will be immortalized one day alongside so many other great players.

Here’s to a great season, Freddie. We’re all rooting for you.