Corey Seager's Return to Dodger Stadium: A Bittersweet Reunion
First Visit Since Departure
Corey Seager returned to Dodger Stadium on Tuesday night for the first time in the regular season since departing as a free agent after the 2021 season. Fans were disheartened to discover that he was not in the Texas Rangers' lineup due to a left hamstring injury that has sidelined him, leaving his status as day-to-day. Tuesday marked the fourth consecutive game he missed.
Seager had previously returned to Dodger Stadium during the 2022 All-Star Game, but this was his first time back for a regular-season game. Despite not playing, Seager's presence brought back a flood of memories for Dodgers fans and the player himself.
Memorable Dodgers Tenure
The 30-year-old shortstop established an impressive reputation in Dodger blue. Seager won the 2016 NL Rookie of the Year award, became an All-Star in his first two full seasons, and played a pivotal role in leading the Dodgers to the 2020 World Series title during the COVID-19 pandemic. He earned both the NL MVP and the World Series MVP honors in the process.
However, Seager admitted feeling a bit disoriented upon his return to Dodger Stadium, especially being unfamiliar with the visiting clubhouse after spending so many years in the home locker room. He reflected on this by commenting, "It got a little confusing for Seager, who wasn’t familiar with the visiting clubhouse." Despite the slight disorientation, Seager spent valuable time reconnecting with old teammates and reflecting on his journey.
New Chapter with the Rangers
After the 2021 season, Seager entered free agency and signed a massive $325 million, 10-year deal with the Texas Rangers. His performance in Texas has been nothing short of remarkable. He earned All-Star selections in both 2022 and 2023 and led the Rangers to a World Series championship, where he was named World Series MVP.
Despite the bittersweet nature of his return to Dodger Stadium due to his inability to play, Seager remains optimistic about his injury status. "Definitely trending. It’s positive," Seager said, expressing hope for a quick recovery. Dodgers manager Dave Roberts also held 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."
Reflections and Growth
Seager’s return to Dodger Stadium was also a time for reflection. "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 remarked. It was a nostalgic experience, filled with mixed emotions for the star shortstop.
Seager acknowledged the role the Dodgers played in his development, saying, "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 his journey and success with the Rangers, Seager commented, "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 Ahead
Corey Seager's journey is a compelling story of growth, perseverance, and success in the world of baseball. While his return to Dodger Stadium was bittersweet due to his inability to contribute on the field, it highlighted his impressive career and the significant impact he has had on the sport. As Seager continues to recover from his injury, fans are optimistic about his return to play and the future moments he will create on the diamond.
For now, Seager remains an emblematic figure of resilience and excellence in baseball, and his story continues to inspire both fans and teammates alike. His positive outlook on his injury and gratitude for his time with the Dodgers and the Rangers showcases a player dedicated to the game and the journey that comes with it.