Braves 1B Freddie Freeman May Return From Knee Injury Next Week

Atlanta Braves first baseman Freddie Freeman’s knee is feeling better and he is now expected to resume training without missing much if any time, according to a tweet from the Atlanta Journal Constitution.

#Braves 1B Freeman said knee's better today, walking w/out crutches. Will wear brace from now on, doesn't expect to miss much if any time.

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David O'Brien (@ajcbraves) February 29, 2012

Freeman is even trying to talk his way into the starting line-up for Saturday’s first exhibition game. However, the Braves are more likely to be cautious in order to preserve his health for the majority of the season.

Freeman said he is going to try to talk his way into lineup as soon as Sat.; #Braves likely to be cautious, keep him out least a few days.

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David O'Brien (@ajcbraves) February 29, 2012

Freeman’s right knee popped out of place at practice yesterday as he reached to pick a low throw at first base. Team doctors first estimated that the first baseman would have to miss several weeks, however a second look has provided a much more optimistic diagnosis.

Last season, Freeman was one of the top candidates for the National League Rookie of the Year award, and in 157 games hit .282 with  76 RBIs, and 21 home runs.