Corey Seager's Return to Dodger Stadium: A Bittersweet Reunion
Corey Seager made a nostalgic return to Dodger Stadium on Tuesday night, marking his first visit to the iconic ballpark during a regular-season game since his departure as a free agent after the 2021 season. However, fans hoping to see their former star shortstop in action with the Texas Rangers were left disappointed, as Seager was sidelined with a left hamstring injury.
Seager's Injury Status
Seager’s hamstring injury has kept him out of the Rangers' lineup, making Tuesday the fourth consecutive game he missed. The 30-year-old shortstop remains day-to-day with the injury but expressed optimism about his recovery. "Definitely trending. It’s positive," he commented, conveying a hopeful outlook for his return.
Nostalgic Return
Seager’s first appearance back at Dodger Stadium occurred during the 2022 All-Star Game. Returning for a regular-season game, however, was a different experience. "It got a little confusing for Seager, who wasn’t familiar with the visiting clubhouse," a testament to how foreign the place felt after years of calling it home.
Reflecting on his journey, Seager said, "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."
Despite the bittersweet nature of his return, Seager took the opportunity to reconnect with old teammates and reflect on his career thus far. Recalling the familiarity he once felt, Seager admitted, "I had some guys ask me where to go and I didn’t know. It’s been a lot of firsts, for sure."
Accomplishments in Dodger Blue
Seager’s tenure with the Dodgers was nothing short of remarkable. He burst onto the scene, winning the 2016 NL Rookie of the Year award and becoming an All-Star in his first two full seasons. His most significant achievement with the Dodgers came during the COVID-19 pandemic, leading the team to the 2020 World Series title and earning NLCS MVP and World Series MVP honors in the process.
"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," Seager reflected, acknowledging the winning culture he experienced with the Dodgers.
Transition to Texas
Post-Dodgers, Seager entered free agency and secured a massive $325 million, 10-year deal with the Texas Rangers. His performance for Texas has been stellar, earning All-Star selections in both 2022 and 2023. Under his leadership, the Rangers clinched a World Series championship, with Seager once again being named World Series MVP.
Legacy and Impact
The respect and admiration for Seager resonate strongly with those he left behind in Los Angeles. Dodgers manager Dave Roberts spoke highly of Seager, recalling him as a "superstar, just a heady baseball player, great competitor, and performed really well on the biggest of stages." Roberts succinctly summed up Seager's impact, saying, "Any team is better with Corey Seager."
Seager’s anticipation and sense of urgency to get back on the field were palpable. "It’s hard not to play every day. You want to be out there with your guys," he said, highlighting the competitive spirit that has driven his success.
Looking Ahead
Corey Seager’s return to Dodger Stadium, while tinged with a sense of disorientation and nostalgia, serves as a reminder of his significant accomplishments and the journey he has undertaken in his career. "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, reflecting on his incredible run with both the Dodgers and the Rangers.
As he continues to recover from his injury, Seager remains a significant player to watch, both for his skill on the field and the leadership qualities he brings to any team he joins. His story is one of growth, perseverance, and remarkable success, capturing the essence of a true sportsman.