In a moment that transcended baseball, Los Angeles Dodgers first baseman and former Braves star Freddie Freeman made his emotional return to Atlanta Friday night — and created a memory that left fans in awe.
As Freeman warmed up during batting practice at Truist Park, he took time to meet a special guest: 101-year-old World War II veteran Clarence “Bud” Johnson, who attended the game with his wife of 70 years. The longtime Braves fan was seated near the field, proudly wearing a jersey that read “Johnson” across the back. Freeman noticed the veteran, walked over, and spent several heartfelt minutes talking with him and his wife.
Witnesses say Freeman kneeled to speak directly with Johnson, shook his hand, and signed his jersey with a smile. “Thank you for everything you’ve done,” Freeman reportedly told the veteran, who smiled back and appeared deeply moved.
Fans in the stadium quickly took notice. Photos and videos of the interaction went viral within minutes on social media, with users praising Freeman for his humility, class, and genuine warmth.
“Freddie has always been a fan favorite in Atlanta, but this… this was something else,” one fan wrote on X (formerly Twitter). “It wasn’t about baseball. It was about respect and humanity.”
Freeman, who spent 12 seasons with the Braves and helped lead them to a World Series title in 2021, has always received a warm welcome when he returns to Atlanta. Friday was no different — the standing ovation he received during pregame introductions was thunderous.
But it was his off-field gesture that made the biggest impact.
“It was emotional for all of us,” said a Dodgers spokesperson. “Freddie didn’t do it for the cameras — he just saw someone who deserved appreciation and gave it. That’s who he is.”
Clarence Johnson’s grandson later posted a message of thanks on social media: “You made my grandfather’s night unforgettable. Our family will cherish that forever.”
As the game got underway, the atmosphere at Truist Park remained electric. But for many in attendance, the highlight of the night had already happened — a quiet moment between a baseball star and a true American hero.
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