Freddie Freeman inspires Dodgers’ top draft pick Bo Lowrance to chase MLB greatness

On 12 July 2024, the Los Angeles Dodgers selected Bo Lowrance with the first overall pick in the MLB Draft. The 18-year-old infielder immediately pointed to Freddie Freeman as the player he most wants to emulate.

Lowrance, a right-handed hitter from Huntsville, Alabama, told reporters he grew up watching Freeman dominate at first base for the Atlanta Braves. Freeman’s mix of power, plate discipline and leadership left a lasting impression on the young prospect.

The Dodgers took Lowrance with the top selection in the 2024 MLB Draft on Thursday night. The franchise had not owned a No. 1 pick since 2015, when they drafted shortstop Corey Seager.

Lowrance joins Seager in the Dodgers’ conversation about future franchise cornerstones. Both players have already drawn comparisons for their smooth defensive actions and right-handed power bats.

Freeman, now 34, retired in January 2024 after 12 All-Star seasons. His résumé includes an MVP award, five Silver Sluggers and a World Series ring in 2021.

Lowrance, who turns 19 next month, said Freeman’s consistency and professionalism set the standard. “He made it look easy every day,” Lowrance said. “That’s the kind of impact I want to have.”

The Braves drafted Freeman 78th overall in 2010. He became a franchise icon by 2019, when he led MLB in runs batted in.

Lowrance is expected to sign before the 15 August 2024 deadline. The Dodgers have not announced a formal assignment yet, but industry sources expect him to open in Low-A Rancho Cucamonga.

The organization has a history of developing top picks quickly. Seager reached the majors 18 months after being drafted in 2012. Freeman needed just 283 games to become an everyday player.

Lowrance’s college coach at Alabama called him a “complete hitter” with “plus makeup.” Those traits mirror Freeman’s early-career scouting reports.

The Dodgers’ front office has already begun mapping Lowrance’s progression. A 2027 debut would align with Freeman’s own timeline from draft to stardom.