Los Angeles Dodgers first baseman Freddie Freeman and his wife Chelsea announced in February 2026 that they are expecting their fourth child via surrogate, continuing their journey of building a family through both traditional and assisted means.
Chelsea Freeman shared the news on social media with a family photograph featuring an ultrasound image, writing that their hearts were already full with anticipation. The couple expressed gratitude for the surrogate assisting them while choosing to maintain her privacy throughout the process.
A Growing Family Built on Perseverance
The Freemans, who married in 2014 after meeting while Chelsea attended the University of Central Florida, welcomed their first son Charlie in September 2016. Their path to expanding their family proved challenging, as the couple faced significant fertility struggles when attempting to conceive a second child.
After deciding to pursue surrogacy, the couple experienced an unexpected turn of events. While already deep into the surrogacy process, Chelsea became pregnant naturally. This resulted in the births of two sons within six weeks of each other: Brandon arrived via surrogate in December 2020, followed by Maximus in February 2021.
Freddie Freeman spoke candidly with USA Today about the emotional toll their fertility challenges took on both partners. The athlete described the experience as one of the most difficult situations he had faced, particularly in trying to comfort his wife through what he characterized as an emotional roller coaster. He noted the visible relief when Chelsea became pregnant, stating it was as though a complete boulder had fallen off her shoulders.
Fatherhood Takes Center Stage
Despite his success on the baseball diamond, Freeman has made clear that fatherhood ranks among his highest priorities. Chelsea told ESPN in November 2020 that her husband had known since childhood that he wanted to be a father, suggesting that being a dad was equally important to him as his professional baseball career.
The eldest Freeman son, Charlie, has already begun following in his father's athletic footsteps through youth baseball. In February 2024, the Dodgers' official social media accounts shared images of father and son fielding ground balls together during spring training, demonstrating the bond between the professional athlete and his young son.
The family celebrated Brandon and Maximus turning three years old with a joint birthday party in March 2024. Chelsea described Brandon as having a sweet soul filled with joy and noted his affinity for bear hugs, while characterizing Maximus as cheeky, smart, kind, and meticulous in everything he does.
Navigating Health Challenges
The family faced a medical scare in July 2024 when Maximus required emergency room treatment after experiencing severe pain that prevented him from sitting, standing, or walking. Medical professionals diagnosed the condition as transient synovitis, also known as irritable hip, which developed from a viral infection. Chelsea requested prayers and advice from followers as the family navigated the three-day ordeal.
Extended Family in the Spotlight
The Freeman family garnered additional public attention in September 2025 when Freddie's aunt, Carol Freeman-Branstine, appeared as a contestant on the second season of The Golden Bachelor. Carol, who serves as Freddie's full-time manager, recently returned to college and has been described as thriving as a later-in-life student.
As the Freeman family prepares to welcome their fourth child, they have not disclosed whether they are expecting a boy or girl, leaving the gender reveal as an open question for fans and well-wishers. The couple has previously indicated their desire to have a daughter, though they remain grateful for whichever blessing arrives.