Dodgers, Freddie Freeman Expected to Discuss Contract Extension This Offseason

Los Angeles Dodgers first baseman Freddie Freeman is entering the final year of his contract, and his future will need some clarity soon.

Freeman is 37 years old and inching closer to 40. He has five years in the books with the Dodgers, and during that time he has delivered multiple big moments, while serving as the captain and helping the team win two World Series.

Dave Roberts and many players lean on Freeman's experience and leadership to guide them through tough times.

Freddie Freeman's contract status heading into the offseason

Freeman is in the last year of a six-year, $162 million contract that is paying him $27 million per season.

Now that his contract is coming to an end, the Dodgers and Freeman need to decide how they will proceed, in terms of how long his next deal will be and how much money he will pull in.

The California Post's Jack Harris believes the Dodgers and Freeman will discuss a new deal this offseason and how they will handle his final few seasons.

"Then there is Freddie Freeman, whose contract situation will come to a head over the next 12 months," Harris wrote.

"The 2027 season is the final one of Freeman's current deal. However, the 37-year-old has indicated a desire to potentially play at least two more seasons beyond it, putting the onus on the Dodgers to make a decision on his future in Los Angeles.

"To this point, the future Hall of Fame first baseman has repeatedly sidestepped any contract talk publicly. But it's unlikely next year begins without him and the team at least discussing his long-term status in the organization at some point."

The Dodgers, even as their team ages, will certainly want to keep Freeman, a quality contact hitter who offers good defense at first base.

Freeman's departure may unlock a path for some of their prospects to play, including Josue De Paula, since it is a position that a lot of players can play.

However, his value to the roster and clubhouse is so massive that they will ride it out with Freeman until he struggles.

During the All-Star break, Freeman laid out that he wants to play antoher three more years, reaching 40 years old.

"I've always wanted to try and play until I'm 40 years old," Freeman said. "That would be three more years after this. I'm not going to put a firm number on it. I would have to get another contract, so I'm only worried about this year. But 20 years in the big leagues would be kind of cool and special."

Freeman certainly wants to play and would love to play with the Dodgers. With the feeling being mutual on both sides, it is hard to see things working out any other way.

What will be interesting to see is the extact terms of the contract.