Will Freddie Freeman play for the Dodgers in Game 5 vs. Padres?

Freddie Freeman knew Wednesday morning that he wouldn't play in Game 4 against the Padres.

He sat down for breakfast with Dodgers manager Dave Roberts, and they both agreed that he needed to rest even though the team was close to elimination.

Still, Roberts decided to add Freeman's name to the lineup to show a little “gamesmanship,” as Freeman put it. However, less than two hours before the game, Freeman was officially cut.

Despite his absence, the Dodgers dominated the Padres 8-0 at Petco Park and forced a Game 5 at Dodger Stadium.

Freeman is dealing with an ankle injury that he is treating day by day. His status for Friday's game has yet to be determined.

“Like I said, it’s everyday life,” Freeman said after the win. “Just glad we got a Game 5.”

He explained that he rested his ankle all day without attempting to walk on it.

His plan for Thursday? Get on the field, get treatment and see how it feels.

The injury would normally sideline him for at least a month during the regular season, but there's no time for that now. In addition to the ankle injury, a bone bruise in his foot and constant pain in his side make it difficult for Freeman to continue. Injections and treatments barely got him through the series, with just one appearance in nine innings under his belt. Every time he steps on the field it is tiring and requires hours of preparation.

“What he did,” said Max Muncy, “was gladiator-like.”

So Muncy said, “Every single person here went to Freddie and said, 'Hey, we got you.' Don't worry.'”

The Dodgers kept their promise and played without Freeman and shortstop Miguel Rojas. Eight relievers combined to shut down the Padres as the bottom half of the Dodgers lineup finally broke out of its doldrums.

“When you get to the postseason, it’s a street fight,” Roberts said. “It's about people, players, and your desire must be more than your opponent's. And seeing our guys go through what they went through and how they respond to it makes me really excited for Game 5.”

Game 5 is scheduled for Friday at 5:08 p.m. PT at Dodger Stadium.