Corey Seager Returns to Dodger Stadium
Corey Seager returned to Dodger Stadium on Tuesday night for the first time in the regular season since departing as a free agent after the 2021 season. However, fans were disheartened to learn that Seager was not in the Texas Rangers' lineup due to a left hamstring injury that has sidelined him.
Seager remains day-to-day with the injury, and Tuesday marked the fourth consecutive game he has missed. Despite his absence on the field, Seager has made a significant impact in Major League Baseball since his initial days with the Dodgers.
Memorable Achievements in Dodger Blue
The 30-year-old shortstop established his reputation in Los Angeles. Seager won the 2016 NL Rookie of the Year award and became an All-Star in his first two full seasons. He played a pivotal role in leading the Dodgers to the 2020 World Series title during the COVID-19 pandemic. Remarkably, he earned NL MVP and World Series MVP honors in the process.
Returning to Dodger Stadium for the 2022 All-Star Game was Seager's initial visit back, but Tuesday's return carried a different weight. "It got a little confusing for Seager, who wasn’t familiar with the visiting clubhouse," he admitted, reflecting on the change in perspective.
Transition to the Texas Rangers
Seager entered free agency and signed a monumental $325 million, 10-year contract with the Texas Rangers. His performance with Texas has been nothing short of remarkable, earning him All-Star selections in both 2022 and 2023. Furthermore, he led the Rangers to a World Series championship and was named the World Series MVP.
Despite the change in scenery, Seager's appreciation for the Dodgers organization remains evident. "This organization kind of raised me, kind of made me the man I am today, taught me the game of baseball, made a lot of friends, made a lot of buddies, had a lot of good times out there so all those memories kind of flash back as you’re pulling in," Seager shared.
Dodgers' Respect for Seager
Dodgers manager Dave Roberts holds a high opinion of Seager. Recalling Seager's contributions, Roberts described him as "a superstar, just a heady baseball player, great competitor and performed really well on the biggest of stages." He added, "Any team is better with Corey Seager."
Reflecting on His Journey
During his visit, Seager spent time reconnecting with old teammates and reflecting on his journey. Despite the disorientation that accompanies change, Seager remains optimistic about his injury status. "Definitely trending. It’s positive," he said about his recovery.
Seager acknowledged the influence of his former team and the lessons learned during his time in Los Angeles. "They taught me how to win, how to do things the right way. It’s a first-class organization, and you try to bring that to another first-class organization," he commented. Reflecting on the rapid success he experienced with the Rangers, Seager remarked, "I don’t know if you ever thought it would be that fast. Just kind of clicked at the right time and got hot in the playoffs and it turns into that."
Although Corey Seager's return to Dodger Stadium was bittersweet due to his inability to play, his journey remains a compelling story of growth, perseverance, and success in the world of baseball. His career achievements serve as a testament to his skill and dedication, proving invaluable to both the Dodgers and the Rangers. Seager's legacy continues to inspire and captivate baseball fans everywhere.