David Freese has never had a great defensive reputation. Pretty sure he’s never had a defensive reputation. He’s just always been there, minding his own business, not bothering anybody, and not doing a lot to attract attention. Like Canada. He was the Canada of third basemen. His career UZR at third, per FanGraphs: 1.1.
Cardinals vs. Rangers: David Freese Escapes Notice ... So Far
But in the first two innings, he's looked like his range is exactly six feet and two inches in either direction, depending on which direction he falls. In the first inning, Ian Kinsler hit a single off his glove down the line, and in the second inning, Adrian Beltre hit one past Freese as well.
Both times, the Cardinals got out of the inning without allowing a run. In the first inning, Kinsler was caught stealing, and in the second, Mike Napoli grounded into a double play. So Freese's defense at third will not become a thing.
But that’s how quickly they can happen, those things. One minute, you’re not paying attention to an aspect of a player’s game, and the next, it’s a thing. Not for Freese this time, though. He was fortunate.
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