Freddie Freeman agent Casey Close says Atlanta Braves perpetuating 'false narrative'

Agent Casey Close accused the Atlanta Braves of perpetuating a «false narrative» regarding the departure of first baseman Freddie Freeman from the organization, saying in a statement to ESPN that he «will not stand by» as allegations about his role in Freeman joining the Los Angeles Dodgers continue in the wake of the months-long fallout from the move.

Questions surrounding Close's part in Freeman leaving Atlanta for the Los Angeles Dodgers came to a head Wednesday, when radio host Doug Gottlieb accused Close in a tweet of withholding the Braves' final offer from Freeman. In a previous statement, Close called that «a wholly inaccurate characterization» and said Excel is «evaluating all legal options to address the reckless publication of inaccurate information.»

In a follow-up statement Thursday, Close said: «I will not stand by as the circumstances surrounding Freddie Freeman's departure from Atlanta are mischaracterized. Since March, the Braves have fostered a narrative about the negotiations which, stated plainly, is false. Part of that false narrative is the suggestion that I did not communicate a contract offer to the Freemans. To be clear, we communicated every offer that was made, as well as every communication Excel had with the Braves organization throughout the entire process. I have a 30-year reputation in this business for integrity and honesty, and I have always operated with the utmost character. At Excel, we are privileged to represent many exemplary athletes, some of whom have chosen to spend their entire careers with one franchise. We always put the player's goals and best interests first and will always continue to do so.»

Negotiations on a contract extension between the Braves and Freeman, who was with