Colorado Rockies: Kyle Freeland talks dogs, Denver and daring hits

Freeland also said he loves being from Denver and giving back where he can, including assisting Denver Public Schools whenever possible. He recently returned to the elementary school where he once attended to help current students by handing out backpacks and words of encouragement.

Being a “Denver kid” is a point of pride for Freeland as is giving back where possible to his hometown.

“It’s very important. That’s one thing I’ve really started to get into this year,” Freeland said. “Trying to get rooted back into the Denver Public Schools system and help out those kids in any way we can. Any other ways that I can help in the city, whether it’s schools or pets or whatever, I’d love to do it.”

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Sure, being a local guy may bring an extra level of complications to game day and beyond with extra ticket requests and extra familiar eyes on every pitch. However, Freeland says he doesn’t mind.

“I embrace it,” he said of playing professionally in his hometown. “I think it’s more of a confidence thing than a burden. It’s something I love to have. It feels like I have the city behind my back. I have my friends and family at the games. It’s great having that support system and being from Denver.”