Freeman will represent Canada at WBC

Freddie Freeman has chosen to represent team Canada at the upcoming World Baseball Classic, according to Sportsnet's Shi Davidi.

The talented Atlanta Braves first baseman was leaning heavily towards Canada despite being born and raised in California and representing the United States in past events. Freeman's father, Fred, was born and raised in Windsor, Ontario while his mother, Rosemary, is from Toronto.

Freeman's desire to represent Canada is due to him wanting to honor Rosemary, who died of cancer when he was only 10 years old.

Veteran Justin Morneau has committed to play, but with Joey Votto deciding not to participate, Freeman will enter the tournament as the starting first baseman and Canada's best player.

He will join the likes of Russell Martin, Ryan Dempster, Eric Gagne, and most likely Michael Saunders.

Freeman is coming off a career year in which he hit .302/.400/.569 with 34 home runs and 91 RBIs. He also contributed an impressive 6.5 WAR in 2016 - the highest among National League first baseman.