Corey Seager’s Return to Dodger Stadium: A Bittersweet Homecoming
Corey Seager made his much-anticipated return to Dodger Stadium on Tuesday night, marking the first time he has set foot on his old stomping grounds during the regular season since departing as a free agent after the 2021 season. However, fans were left disappointed as Seager was absent from the Texas Rangers’ lineup due to a left hamstring injury that has kept him sidelined and leaves his playing status day-to-day.
This game marked the fourth consecutive one Seager had missed due to his injury, a stark contrast to the impact he had made at Dodger Stadium during his tenure with the team. Seager first returned to Dodger Stadium for the 2022 All-Star Game, but coming back for a regular season game inevitably carried more emotional weight for both him and the Dodgers faithful.
Seager’s Glorious Legacy with Dodgers
Corey Seager, now 30, left an indelible mark on the Dodgers. He quickly established himself as one of the premier shortstops in baseball, starting with his 2016 National League Rookie of the Year award. Seager was also an All-Star in his first two full seasons, showcasing his talent and promise early on. The pinnacle of his achievements with the Dodgers came during the pandemic-shortened 2020 season when he led the team to a World Series title and earned himself both the NL MVP and World Series MVP honors in the process.
Seager himself admitted to feeling a bit disoriented upon his return, particularly as he navigated the unfamiliar visiting clubhouse. Reflecting on his time with the Dodgers, Seager acknowledged the role the organization played in shaping his career and life. "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 said.
A Remarkable Journey with the Rangers
Since entering free agency, Seager signed a monumental $325 million, 10-year deal with the Texas Rangers, where he continued to thrive. His performance with Texas has been extraordinary, earning All-Star selections in both 2022 and 2023. Additionally, he played a crucial role in leading the Rangers to a World Series championship, once again securing the World Series MVP title. "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," Seager remarked about the remarkable run with the Rangers.
The Dodgers and their manager, Dave Roberts, hold Seager in high regard. Roberts candidly described Seager 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." These sentiments were echoed by Seager’s old teammates whom he spent time reconnecting with during his visit.
Seager's Optimism Amid Adversity
While Seager’s return to Dodger Stadium was a nostalgic experience, it was also a moment to reflect on his ongoing journey and current challenges. Seager remains optimistic about his injury status, noting that his recovery is "definitely trending. It’s positive." Despite the physical setback, Seager’s spirit remains unwavering as he adapts to his new surroundings and responsibilities. "It's hard not to play every day. You want to be out there with your guys." Seager commented on the difficulty of being sidelined. Additionally, he experienced a touch of culture shock in his old home, facing confusion in the visiting team’s clubhouse. "It got a little confusing for Seager, who wasn’t familiar with the visiting clubhouse," underscoring the unfamiliar territory he now finds himself navigating.
A Testament to Growth and Perseverance
Corey Seager’s journey from being a promising rookie with the Dodgers to becoming a World Series MVP with the Rangers is a testament to his growth, perseverance, and success in the world of baseball. His ability to rise to the biggest occasions, coupled with his undeniable talent, has made Seager an elite player who continues to inspire and captivate fans and teammates alike. As the star shortstop reflects on his past and looks towards his future, his story remains a compelling narrative of athletic prowess and personal development within the sport.