Dodgers lineup gets big lift from David Freese

A few weeks ago, David Freese thought he would end his season playing in meaningless games for the Pittsburgh Pirates. They were fading in the standings. The non-waiver trade deadline had passed. The waiver deadline was fast approaching. His place in Pittsburgh appeared cemented.

Then, on Aug. 31, minutes before the waiver trade deadline passed, Freese was dealt to the Dodgers. A day later he was in the starting lineup. He was suddenly instrumental for a club fighting for a sixth straight division crown. His addition has proven invaluable.

After going three for four with a home run in Monday’s 7-4 win at Arizona, the 35-year-old infielder is batting .375 with two home runs and a 1.130…