Corey Seager Returns to Dodger Stadium: a Bittersweet Homecoming
First Reunion Since Departure
Corey Seager made his much-anticipated return to Dodger Stadium on Tuesday night, gracing the field for the first time in the regular season since leaving the Los Angeles Dodgers as a free agent after the 2021 season. His return came as part of the Texas Rangers roster, but fans were left disappointed when they discovered that Seager was not listed in the lineup. A left hamstring injury has kept the star shortstop sidelined, and he remains day-to-day with the issue. Tuesday's game marked the fourth consecutive contest he missed due to this injury.
A Storied Career in Dodger Blue
This wasn't Seager's first time back at Dodger Stadium. He had previously returned for the 2022 All-Star Game. At 30 years old, Seager has already established a formidable legacy, much of which was built with the Dodgers. Since winning the 2016 NL Rookie of the Year award, he secured his place as an All-Star in his first two full seasons. His crowning achievement came during the 2020 season when he led the Dodgers to a World Series title in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic, earning both the NL MVP and World Series MVP honors in the process.
Seager admitted to feeling somewhat disoriented upon his return to Dodger Stadium, particularly with the unfamiliarity of the visiting clubhouse. This return triggered a mix of emotions and memories for him. "It got a little confusing for Seager, who wasn’t familiar with the visiting clubhouse," he stated.
Life After LA
Following his departure from the Dodgers, Seager signed a massive $325 million, 10-year deal with the Texas Rangers. Despite his transition to a new team, his performance has been nothing short of remarkable. Seager has earned All-Star selections in both 2022 and 2023 and led the Rangers to a World Series championship, securing yet another World Series MVP title. Rangers manager Dave Roberts holds Seager in high regard, summarizing his impact succinctly by stating, "Any team is better with Corey Seager."
During his visit to Dodger Stadium, Seager spent time reconnecting with old teammates and reflecting on his journey. "This organization kind of raised me, kind of made me the man I am today," Seager remarked, adding, "They taught me how to win, how to do things the right way."
Challenges and Optimism
Seager's consistent excellence has come with its challenges. Being sidelined due to injury has not been easy for him. "It’s hard not to play every day. You want to be out there with your guys," he admitted. Despite the physical setback, Seager remains optimistic about his injury status, indicating a positive trend. "Definitely trending. It’s positive," he commented, suggesting that his return to the field may happen sooner rather than later.
His return to Dodger Stadium, though bittersweet, was also a moment for Seager to appreciate the journey that has taken him from his debut as a promising rookie to his current status as a celebrated veteran. Reflecting on his swift rise to success, he noted, "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."
Legacy and Influence
Corey Seager's journey through baseball is a compelling story of growth, perseverance, and triumph against the odds. His career trajectory from a young talent in Dodger blue to a superstar with the Rangers is a testament to his skill, dedication, and capacity for growth. "[The Dodgers] are a first-class organization and you try to bring that to another first-class organization," he said, acknowledging the influence both teams have had on his career. His influence extends beyond the statistics, touching on the leadership and winning mentality he brings to any team he joins.
As Seager looks forward to fully recovering from his injury and returning to the field, both Dodgers and Rangers fans can reflect on his remarkable journey. While his latest visit to Dodger Stadium may have been tinged with a sense of nostalgia and missed opportunities, it also underscored the resilience and unwavering spirit of an athlete who remains a defining figure in the world of baseball.