Corey Seager's Return to Dodger Stadium: A Bittersweet Homecoming
Seager's Homecoming Amid Absence
Corey Seager returned 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. While fans eagerly anticipated his return, they 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. His first return to Dodger Stadium was during the 2022 All-Star Game.
Fond Memories and Achievements
The 30-year-old shortstop established his reputation in Dodger blue, clinching the 2016 NL Rookie of the Year award and earning All-Star selections in his first two full seasons. Seager was instrumental in leading the Dodgers to the 2020 World Series title during the COVID-19 pandemic, earning both NL MVP and World Series MVP honors in the process.
Upon his return to Dodger Stadium, Seager admitted to feeling a bit disoriented, unfamiliar with the visiting clubhouse. He remarked, "It got a little confusing for Seager, who wasn’t familiar with the visiting clubhouse."
A New Chapter with the Rangers
Seager entered free agency and signed a monumental $325 million, 10-year deal with the Texas 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. For his efforts, he was named World Series MVP.
Dodgers manager Dave Roberts holds a high opinion of Seager, recalling him as a "superstar, just a heady baseball player, great competitor, and performed really well on the biggest of stages." Roberts 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. He acknowledged the impact the Dodgers organization had on him, saying, "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 due to his injury, Seager remains optimistic about his recovery, stating, "Definitely trending. It’s positive." He also commented on the disorientation that comes with change, "I had some guys ask me where to go and I didn’t know. It’s been a lot of firsts, for sure."
Seager's Legacy and Optimism
Seager’s return to Dodger Stadium might have been marred by his inability to play, but his journey remains a compelling story of growth, perseverance, and success in the world of baseball. He reflected on the unique experience of transitioning to the Rangers, "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."
Regarding his quick success with Texas, 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."
Conclusion
Corey Seager’s return to Dodger Stadium was a notable event filled with reflection and optimism. While sidelined by injury, his impressive achievements and ongoing journey remain a testament to his talent and dedication. Dodgers fans and baseball enthusiasts alike continue to watch and hope for Seager’s swift return to the diamond.