Is Freddie Freeman playing tonight against Mexico? Superstar's participation status explored after hamstring injury

Freddie Freeman of the Los Angeles Dodgers drew some interest this week when he appeared in the 2023 World Baseball Classic. Although many assumed that the California-born first baseman would be playing for the USA, he took the field wearing Canadian red.

Despite being born and raised in Fountain, Valley California, Freddie Freeman's parents both come from Ontario, Canada. He has chosen to represent Canada on the national level in remembrance of his mother Rosemary, who passed away when he was only 10.

"Shout out to Windsor, Ontario. Freddie' Freeman's Dad's hometown! Freddie is one of my favourites! (sp. in your honour Canada)." - Iffy the Dopester

Freeman had an RBI and three runs in Canada's World Baseball Classic opener against Great Britain, but was kept off the scoresheet as Canada fell to the USA by an embarrassing 12-1 margin on March 13.

During Canada's 5-0 win over Colombia on March 14, the Los Angeles Dodgers star suffered a hamstring injury in the fourth inning. He left the game and did not return.

Following the game, team doctors advised the team to sit Freeman for their final game against Mexico. Team Canada manager Ernie Whitt explained to the press that Freeman "has had tightness in his hammy."

"Freddie Freeman left today's game with a slight hamstring injury" - Fox Sports: MLB

Although Chicago Cubs prospect Jared Young is scheduled to move from the outfield to first base to cover Freeman, observers are wondering if this is a permanent solution.

Others have spoken of Cleveland Guardians star Josh Naylor, who has played DH for Team Canada thus far in the tournament. Although it is not known if Freddie Freeman will miss the entirety of the tournament, Josh Naylor certainly represents a good option for first base going forward.

Canada's final game of Pool C play will take place against Mexico on March 15. A win against their fellow North American state will likely propel them into the next round of play.

Freddie Freeman's departure could be a fatal blow to Team Canada

Freeman led the MLB in both runs, hits and doubles last season. Everyone knows that the 2021 NL MVP's decision to forego a spot on the star-studded American team helped out the Canadian offense immeasurably.

Although his team will want every caution taken to preserve Freeman's long-term health, him not being in the lineup will pose a serious threat to Canada's chances of going deep into the World Baseball Classic.