Freddie Freeman and the Dodgers: The Truth Behind the $440 Million Contract Rumor
In the world of Major League Baseball, blockbuster contracts often make headlines, and the Los Angeles Dodgers are no strangers to making historic financial commitments. However, recent reports claiming that the Dodgers have re-signed first baseman Freddie Freeman to a three-year, $440 million contract appear to be unfounded. A closer look at the situation reveals why such a deal is highly unlikely, and why no credible sources have confirmed this information.
Freeman’s Existing Contract and Dodgers’ Payroll Commitments
Freddie Freeman signed a six-year, $162 million contract with the Dodgers in March 2022, a deal that runs through the 2027 season. This contract includes deferred payments, with $57 million scheduled to be paid between 2028 and 2040. As of 2025, Freeman is still under this agreement, making any speculation about a massive new contract questionable at best.
Additionally, the Dodgers have made significant financial commitments in recent years, most notably their 10-year, $700 million contract with Shohei Ohtani in December 2023. The deal includes $680 million in deferred payments, an unprecedented structure designed to help the Dodgers navigate luxury tax implications. Given these substantial financial obligations, the idea of the Dodgers allocating an additional $440 million over just three years to a player already under contract seems implausible.
Breaking Down the Reported $440 Million Figure
If the Dodgers were to commit $440 million to Freeman over three years, this would amount to an annual salary of approximately $146.7 million. This would shatter existing records for average annual value (AAV) in MLB history. For context, the highest AAV contract currently belongs to Shohei Ohtani at approximately $70 million per year (when including deferred payments). Even if structured with deferrals, a deal of this magnitude would be unprecedented and financially impractical for the Dodgers.
Furthermore, MLB teams must navigate the league’s Competitive Balance Tax (CBT), commonly known as the luxury tax. The Dodgers, despite their deep pockets, have historically been mindful of tax penalties. Such a contract for Freeman would dramatically inflate their payroll and trigger severe luxury tax consequences, making the logistics of such a deal even more dubious.
Freeman’s Performance and Value to the Dodgers
Freeman remains one of the most productive hitters in baseball. Since joining the Dodgers, he has consistently delivered elite offensive numbers, including a .300+ batting average, high on-base percentage, and strong power numbers. His defense at first base and leadership qualities further enhance his value to the club.
However, at 35 years old (as of 2025), Freeman is entering the latter stages of his career. While he continues to perform at a high level, offering such a staggering sum over a short-term period would be highly unconventional, even for a player of his caliber. The Dodgers would be better served allocating resources toward younger talent or pitching depth rather than committing a historic amount to a player already under contract.
Could a Contract Extension Be in Play?
While the rumored $440 million figure is highly unlikely, it’s worth considering whether the Dodgers might explore a contract extension for Freeman. Given his steady production and leadership presence, it wouldn’t be surprising if the team considers a short-term extension closer to the expiration of his current deal in 2027. Such an extension would likely be structured in a more financially responsible manner rather than a drastic three-year mega-deal.
The Role of Social Media and False Reports
False or misleading contract rumors frequently circulate in the age of social media. Whether originating from an unreliable source or a misunderstanding of contract logistics, it’s crucial for fans to verify information through reputable sports journalists and official team statements.
Currently, no credible reports from sources such as ESPN, The Athletic, or MLB insiders have confirmed any new deal between Freeman and the Dodgers. Without legitimate confirmation, the claim of a $440 million contract remains nothing more than speculation.