Freddie Freeman and Max Fried Return to Atlanta as 2025 MLB All-Stars

Two beloved former Braves—Freddie Freeman and Max Fried—made an emotional return to Atlanta for the 2025 MLB All-Star Game, bringing back fond memories and loud cheers at Truist Park.

Freeman Back Where It All Began

Now in his fourth season with the Los Angeles Dodgers, Freeman remains deeply connected to the city where he played his first 12 MLB seasons. Named the starting first baseman for the National League, he didn’t hide his emotions ahead of Tuesday’s game.

“For the last four years, every time I come back, the fans have given me such big, standing ovations,” Freeman said before the Home Run Derby. “So if they give me one, I’ll take it all in.”

Freeman still keeps a home in Atlanta and said he was especially grateful to see Braves manager Brian Snitker and former teammates. But what meant the most was reconnecting with fans. “Every time I come back, I try to portray what Atlanta means to me. It’s special,” he added.

Max Fried Makes a Memorable Appearance

Max Fried, now with the New York Yankees, also returned to his former home turf. Though unable to pitch due to a blister, Fried was still introduced during pre-game festivities—and received one of the loudest ovations of the night.

“It’s weird but also really comfortable being back,” Fried said in an MLB Network interview. “I’m in a new place, but I come back and see so many familiar faces.”

Fried pitched his first eight seasons in Atlanta before signing a $218 million contract with the Yankees last December. He has already made a strong impact, going 11-3 with a 2.43 ERA in the first half of the season.

Even though Fried couldn’t pitch, his presence was felt. He may return to the mound later this week as the Yankees open their second half with a three-game series at Truist Park starting Friday.

Dodgers and Yankees Praise the Reunion

Dodgers manager Dave Roberts noted how much the All-Star Game in Atlanta meant to Freeman. “It was marked on his calendar. His goal was to be here and play in front of the Braves’ faithful,” Roberts said.

Freeman shared praise for Fried’s breakout with the Yankees, calling him a “big-game pitcher” who earned every bit of his massive deal. “Especially in pinstripes in the Bronx, when there’s a lot of pressure on you—it’s awesome,” Freeman said.

As two former Braves, Freeman and Fried may now wear different uniforms, but their return to Atlanta proved that some baseball bonds never fade.

Do you think Atlanta should retire Freddie Freeman’s jersey someday? Let us know your thoughts in the comments.

More…

• https://www.tsn.ca/former-braves-players-freddie-freeman-and-max-fried-are-making-their-return-to-atlanta-as-all-stars-1.2335537
• https://www.thestar.com/sports/baseball/former-braves-players-freddie-freeman-and-max-fried-are-making-their-return-to-atlanta-as/article_cc97cce1-c03c-57ab-b85f-bd5501ef6017.html
• https://sny.tv/articles/yankees-max-fried-warm-welcome-atlanta-2025-all-star-game