Dodgers bench Freddie Freeman for the series opener against the Nationals

The Los Angeles Dodgers begin a three-game series against the Washington Nationals on September 5, 2026, with Freddie Freeman listed as a scratch from the starting lineup. This rest day follows a recent stretch where the team struggled to maintain consistency despite a 9th-inning comeback victory in their previous outing against the St. Louis Cardinals. Blake Snell is scheduled to start on the mound for the Dodgers as they look to improve their standing in the National League playoff race. While Shohei Ohtani remains in the lineup despite ongoing bicep and knee concerns, the team continues to manage player health carefully. Los Angeles holds a more favorable schedule for the remainder of the season, providing an opportunity to secure a higher playoff seed. Management expects Freeman to return to the starting rotation on Saturday.

• 1:06 AMYahoo Sports — Dodgers Reveal Freddie Freeman Move Before Nationals Series