Corey Seager's Long-Awaited Return to Dodger Stadium
Corey Seager made his much-anticipated return to Dodger Stadium on Tuesday night, marking his first appearance in the regular season at the venue since departing as a free agent following the 2021 season. However, fans hoping to see him in action for the Texas Rangers were disappointed, as a left hamstring injury kept him sidelined for the fourth consecutive game.
An Illustrious Career with the Dodgers
Seager, now 30 years old, established himself as a standout player during his time with the Dodgers. Winning the National League Rookie of the Year award in 2016, he quickly became a key player. His talent and hard work earned him All-Star selections in his first two full seasons and a pivotal role in leading the Dodgers to the 2020 World Series title during the COVID-19 pandemic. Seager's performance in that championship run was extraordinary, capturing both the National League MVP and World Series MVP honors.
Seager first returned to Dodger Stadium during the 2022 All-Star Game, but Tuesday's return was unique, evoking a mix of emotions for both him and the fans.
Navigating New Territories
Admitting to feeling somewhat disoriented upon returning to Dodger Stadium, Seager mentioned the unfamiliarity with the visiting clubhouse as a challenge. “It got a little confusing for Seager, who wasn’t familiar with the visiting clubhouse," he noted, adding, "I had some guys ask me where to go and I didn’t know. It’s been a lot of firsts, for sure.”
Despite these minor adjustments, Seager reflected fondly on his time with the Dodgers, acknowledging the significant impact the organization had on his career and personal growth. "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 shared.
A New Chapter with the Rangers
After entering free agency, Seager signed a monumental $325 million, 10-year deal with the Texas Rangers. His tenure with Texas has been nothing short of remarkable. Seager earned All-Star selections in both 2022 and 2023 and played a critical role in leading the Rangers to a World Series championship, where he once again claimed the World Series MVP title.
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 added, "Any team is better with Corey Seager."
Bittersweet Return
Although Seager’s return to Dodger Stadium rekindled cherished memories, his inability to play due to the hamstring injury cast a shadow over the occasion. "It’s hard not to play every day. You want to be out there with your guys," he confessed. Still, Seager remains optimistic about his recovery, stating, "Definitely trending. It’s positive."
His time at Dodger Stadium was not only a chance to reconnect with former teammates but also a moment for introspection, reflecting on his journey from a budding talent to a seasoned champion. "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," remarked Seager.
A Story of Growth and Success
Corey Seager’s career trajectory is a compelling narrative of growth, perseverance, and success. His ability to adapt and excel in new environments speaks volumes about his character and dedication to the sport. "I don’t know if you ever thought it would be that fast. It just kind of clicked at the right time, got hot in the playoffs, and it turns into that," Seager reflected on his swift rise to success.
Though his return to Dodger Stadium was tinged with the regret of not being able to play, the experience highlighted his enduring connection to the Dodgers and their fans. Corey Seager’s journey continues to inspire, reminding us all of the resilience and unwavering commitment required to achieve greatness in the world of baseball.