Corey Seager Returns to Dodger Stadium
Corey Seager returned to Dodger Stadium on Tuesday night, marking his first appearance in the regular season since departing as a free agent following the 2021 campaign. However, fans hoping to see him in action were left disappointed, as the Texas Rangers shortstop was sidelined with a left hamstring injury. This injury has rendered him day-to-day and has caused him to miss four consecutive games.
Bittersweet Homecoming
Seager first came back to Dodger Stadium during the 2022 All-Star Game, but this regular-season return was charged with more personal significance. Despite not playing, the 30-year-old shortstop, who established his reputation with the Dodgers, took the opportunity to reflect on his journey. "Definitely trending. It’s positive," Seager said about his injury status. However, he admitted to feeling a bit disoriented, saying, "It got a little confusing for Seager, who wasn’t familiar with the visiting clubhouse."
A Storied Career in Dodger Blue
Seager’s accolades with the Dodgers are numerous and impressive. He won the 2016 NL Rookie of the Year award and became an All-Star in his first two full seasons. Significantly, he played a crucial role in leading the Dodgers to the 2020 World Series title during the COVID-19 pandemic. Seager's performance earned him both the NL MVP and World Series MVP honors that year.
"Any team is better with Corey Seager," Dodgers manager Dave Roberts lauded Seager, recalling him as a "superstar, just a heady baseball player, great competitor and performed really well on the biggest of stages." Seager had indeed forged bonds and memorable experiences with the Dodgers, and he acknowledged this emotional connection. "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 recalled.
Success with the Rangers
Following his tenure with the Dodgers, Seager entered free agency and inked a monumental $325 million, 10-year contract with the Texas Rangers. His performance with the Rangers has continued to be remarkable, earning him All-Star selections in both 2022 and 2023. Additionally, he led the Rangers to a World Series championship and was named World Series MVP, further cementing his status as one of baseball’s premier players.
Despite his success with another organization, Seager remains grateful for his development with the Dodgers. "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 remarked, reflecting on the high standards both teams uphold.
Reuniting with Old Teammates
Seager’s return wasn’t just business; it was also personal. He spent significant time reconnecting with old teammates and reminiscing about shared experiences. "I had some guys ask me where to go, and I didn’t know. It’s been a lot of firsts, for sure," he confessed, underscoring how much things had changed but also how important those relationships remained to him.
Looking Ahead
As Seager navigates his current injury, he remains optimistic about his recovery and future contributions. "It’s hard not to play every day. You want to be out there with your guys," he expressed, voicing the desire that drives him. Nevertheless, he is keeping a positive outlook, confident that he will soon rejoin his team on the field.
In reflecting on his incredible journey from a promising rookie to a decorated veteran, Seager said, "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." Corey Seager’s story is indeed one of growth, perseverance, and success—elements that have endeared him to fans and peers alike.
Corey Seager’s journey back to Dodger Stadium may have been bittersweet, given his inability to play, but it served as a poignant reminder of his impressive career and the indelible mark he has left on the world of baseball.