Freddie Freeman is about to face the organization that drafted him, developed him, and helped make him a franchise icon. But as the Los Angeles Dodgers prepare to open their National League Division Series against the Atlanta Braves, Freeman isn't interested in making his past the central storyline.

The 37-year-old spent the first 12 seasons of his MLB career with Atlanta before joining the Dodgers in 2022. The Braves later acquired Matt Olson to take over at first base, creating one of the most notable transitions in the franchise's recent history.

Now, he and Olson are set to face each other in the postseason, adding another layer to an already compelling NLDS matchup.

Freeman understands that his history with Atlanta will naturally be part of the conversation, but his attention remains on the Dodgers and their postseason goals. Los Angeles enters the NLDS after securing a first-round bye and home-field advantage. They are also attempting to continue their pursuit of another World Series championship, putting the focus firmly on the present rather than Freeman's history in Atlanta.

The defending champions have plenty to address beyond the storyline surrounding Freeman. The Braves won five of six regular-season meetings between the teams this year, including a three-game sweep in August. Atlanta also held the Dodgers' offense in check during those matchups.

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Freeman enters the series looking to make an impact after dealing with a right knee issue late in the season. While his production has fluctuated at times, he remains a key piece of a Dodgers lineup featuring Shohei Ohtani, Mookie Betts, Max Muncy and Kyle Tucker.

For the 10-time All-Star, facing Atlanta will inevitably carry some personal significance. He spent more than a decade with the Braves, won an MVP award with the franchise and helped lead the team to a World Series title in 2021.

Still, Freeman isn't allowing the Braves' legacy in his career to overshadow what comes next. Once Game 1 begins at Dodger Stadium, his history with Atlanta will matter far less than what he can do against his former team.

The storyline may be about Freeman returning to his old organization. For the Dodgers first baseman, however, the objective is much simpler: help Los Angeles advance.