David Freese, American baseball player

David Richard Freese, born on April 28, 1983, is a distinguished American former professional baseball player who made his mark primarily as a corner infielder in Major League Baseball (MLB). His career, while featuring stints with several prominent franchises, is perhaps most indelibly linked with his heroic performances for the St. Louis Cardinals, especially during their remarkable 2011 championship season.

The Unforgettable 2011 Postseason: A Legend Forged

Freese's journey into the pantheon of baseball legends truly began during the 2011 MLB postseason. As a key player for the St. Louis Cardinals, he delivered a series of clutch performances that etched his name into baseball history. In the 2011 National League Championship Series (NLCS) against the Milwaukee Brewers, Freese was an offensive force, batting an astonishing .545 with 12 hits, showcasing his ability to thrive under immense pressure. Yet, his heroics were far from over.

He continued his extraordinary display in the World Series against the Texas Rangers, where he not only helped propel the Cardinals to an improbable championship but also set an all-time MLB postseason record with an astounding 21 runs batted in (RBIs). This unparalleled output led to a sweep of prestigious individual honors: he was named the NLCS Most Valuable Player (MVP), the World Series MVP, and further cemented his legacy by winning the Babe Ruth Award, which recognizes the MVP of the entire MLB postseason. His performance in Game 6 of that World Series, often considered one of the greatest games in baseball history, remains a particular highlight, featuring a game-tying triple in the ninth inning and a walk-off home run in the eleventh, solidifying his status as a postseason icon.

From High School Star to MLB Draft Pick

Freese's path to professional baseball was unique and marked by a brief but crucial detour. A standout high school player, he initially turned down a baseball scholarship from the University of Missouri. This decision allowed him a much-needed break from the sport, a period of introspection where he recharged his passion for the game. After this hiatus, Freese reignited his career at St. Louis Community College–Meramec, a junior college, playing for one season before transferring to the University of South Alabama. It was there that he continued to refine his skills, ultimately catching the eye of MLB scouts. His talent was recognized when the San Diego Padres selected him in the ninth round of the 2006 MLB draft, marking the official start of his professional baseball odyssey.

A Career Defined by Clutch Moments and Resilience

St. Louis Cardinals: Debut and Breakthrough

The Cardinals acquired Freese prior to the 2008 season, recognizing his potential. His Major League Baseball debut arrived on Opening Day 2009, an opportunity that arose unexpectedly due to an injury to the team's starting third baseman, Troy Glaus. While his early career was punctuated by his own share of injuries, both in the minor leagues and during his initial two MLB seasons, Freese persevered. His resilience paid off handsomely in 2011, a season that saw him bat a solid .297 with 10 home runs and 55 RBIs. This impressive regular season set the stage for the Cardinals' eventual magical run and their dramatic 2011 World Series championship victory over the Texas Rangers, a triumph in which Freese played a pivotal, leading role.

Following his breakout year, Freese continued to showcase his capabilities. In the subsequent 2012 season, he further solidified his standing, batting .293 with 20 home runs, earning him his first career selection to the MLB All-Star Game – a testament to his consistent performance at the plate. However, the recurring theme of injuries would again challenge his career. Despite authoring an impressive 20-game hitting streak in 2013, persistent back injuries began to limit his effectiveness on the field. Consequently, after the 2013 season, the Cardinals made the difficult decision to trade him to the Los Angeles Angels, marking the end of his memorable tenure in St. Louis.

Journeying Through MLB: Angels, Pirates, and Dodgers

His time with the Los Angeles Angels spanned two seasons, where he continued to contribute as a veteran presence in the infield. Following his stint in Anaheim, Freese signed with the Pittsburgh Pirates in March 2016, bringing his experience and leadership to the National League Central. He played for the Pirates for a couple of seasons before being traded to the Los Angeles Dodgers in 2018, joining another contending team where his postseason pedigree and clutch hitting were highly valued. After a distinguished career marked by incredible highs and persistent challenges, David Freese ultimately announced his retirement from professional baseball following the 2019 season, closing the chapter on a memorable MLB journey.

Frequently Asked Questions About David Freese

When was David Freese born?
David Richard Freese was born on April 28, 1983.
What position did David Freese play?
He played as a corner infielder, primarily at third base, during his MLB career.
Which MLB teams did David Freese play for?
David Freese played for the St. Louis Cardinals (2009-2013), Los Angeles Angels (2014-2015), Pittsburgh Pirates (2016-2018), and Los Angeles Dodgers (2018-2019).
What was David Freese's most notable achievement?
His most notable achievement was his incredible performance during the 2011 MLB postseason, where he won the NLCS MVP, World Series MVP, and Babe Ruth Award, setting an MLB postseason record with 21 RBIs, and famously delivering clutch hits in Game 6 of the World Series.
When did David Freese retire from professional baseball?
David Freese retired from Major League Baseball after the 2019 season.