Corey Seager's Triumphant Return to Dodger Stadium
Corey Seager came back to Dodger Stadium on Tuesday night for the first time in the regular season since his departure as a free agent after the 2021 season. However, fans were disappointed to find that he wasn’t in the Texas Rangers’ lineup due to a left hamstring injury that has kept him sidelined. Seager remains day-to-day with the injury, and Tuesday marked the fourth consecutive game he’s missed. Seager first returned to Dodger Stadium during the 2022 All-Star Game. The 30-year-old shortstop established his reputation in Dodger blue, winning the 2016 NL Rookie of the Year award and becoming an All-Star in his first two full seasons. His legacy was cemented when he led the Dodgers to the 2020 World Series title during the COVID-19 pandemic, earning NL MVP and World Series MVP honors in the process.
Adjusting to New Surroundings
Returning to a familiar place can often bring a sense of nostalgia, and in Seager’s case, it was no different. The shortstop admitted to feeling a bit disoriented upon his return to Dodger Stadium, particularly because he was unfamiliar with the visiting clubhouse. "It got a little confusing for Seager, who wasn’t familiar with the visiting clubhouse," notes the report. After spending seven years in Los Angeles, Seager entered free agency and signed a staggering $325 million, 10-year deal with the Rangers. His performance with Texas has been nothing short of remarkable, earning him All-Star selections in both 2022 and 2023 and leading the Rangers to a World Series championship, where he was once again named World Series MVP.
Fond Memories with Dodgers
Seager’s legacy with the Dodgers is enduring. Dodgers manager Dave Roberts holds a high opinion of Seager, referring to him as a "very good Dodger." Roberts recalled Seager as a "superstar, just a heady baseball player, great competitor and performed really well on the biggest of stages." To underscore the high regard in which he holds his former player, Roberts said, "Any team is better with Corey Seager." Seager also spent time reconnecting with old teammates, spending Monday with Dodgers utility man Chris Taylor in Manhattan Beach. For Roberts, while he has moved on, his memories of Seager remain highly positive.
Seager's Reflections
The return to Dodger Stadium wasn’t just about reminiscing for Seager; it was also a time to reflect on his journey. "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," said Seager. He added, "It’s hard not to play every day. You want to be out there with your guys." Despite the challenges and changes, Seager remains optimistic about his injury status, stating, "Definitely trending. It’s positive."
Seager also acknowledged the disorientation that comes with change, saying, "I had some guys ask me where to go and I didn’t know. It’s been a lot of firsts, for sure." Reflecting on his development both as a player and individual, Seager commented, "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." Reflecting on the rapidity of his success, 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."
Looking Forward
While Corey Seager’s return to Dodger Stadium may have been bittersweet due to his inability to play, it provided a poignant moment to reflect on his achievements and connections. Both Seager and the Dodgers have fond memories of their time together, and his contributions to the sport continue to be felt both in Los Angeles and now in Texas. As Seager moves forward with the Rangers, his mark on the Dodgers is indelible, a testament to his skill, dedication, and competitive spirit. His journey is a compelling story of growth, perseverance, and success in the world of baseball.