Corey Seager's Return to Dodger Stadium: A Bittersweet Homecoming
Corey Seager made his much-anticipated return to Dodger Stadium on Tuesday night, marking his first visit in a regular-season game since leaving the Los Angeles Dodgers as a free agent after the 2021 season. Fans were eager to welcome back the star shortstop, but they were disappointed to find him absent from the Texas Rangers' lineup. A left hamstring injury has sidelined Seager, keeping him out of action in what would have been a sentimental homecoming.
Injury and Absence
Seager's hamstring injury remains a day-to-day concern. Tuesday's game was the fourth consecutive one he has missed, much to the dismay of fans who had hoped to see him play. Despite his absence, Seager's return to Dodger Stadium during the 2022 All-Star Game remains a fond memory for many.
An Illustrious Career in Dodger Blue
At 30 years old, Corey Seager's career has been nothing short of stellar. He first made a name for himself as a Dodger, earning the 2016 NL Rookie of the Year award and becoming an All-Star in his first two full seasons. Seager's crowning achievement came during the 2020 season when he led the Dodgers to a World Series title amidst the COVID-19 pandemic. His performances earned him both the NL MVP and World Series MVP honors, solidifying his legacy in Los Angeles.
Seager admitted feeling a bit disoriented upon his return to Dodger Stadium, unfamiliar with the visiting clubhouse. His departure from the Dodgers was marked by a lucrative $325 million, 10-year deal with the Texas Rangers—a decision that has turned out to be remarkably fruitful for both Seager and his new team.
A New Chapter with the Rangers
Seager's stint with the Rangers has been nothing short of impressive. He earned All-Star selections in both 2022 and 2023 and played a pivotal role in leading the Rangers to a World Series championship. Seager once again showcased his talent by earning the World Series MVP title, further confirming his status as one of baseball's brightest stars.
The respect and admiration for Seager extend beyond his current team. Dodgers manager Dave Roberts holds him in high regard, describing Seager 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."
Reconnecting with Old Teammates
Despite the bittersweet nature of his return due to his injury, Seager took the opportunity to reconnect with his former teammates. His time in Los Angeles was a period of personal and professional growth, and the memories of his accomplishments and friendships came flooding back as he walked through the stadium. "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 reflected.
Optimism Amidst Adversity
Despite the setback of his injury, Seager remains optimistic about his recovery. He remarked, "Definitely trending. It’s positive." Adjusting to changes and dealing with new firsts has become a part of his journey. "I had some guys ask me where to go and I didn’t know. It’s been a lot of firsts, for sure," he said.
Seager's journey from Los Angeles to Texas exemplifies growth, perseverance, and success. Reflecting on his rapid rise, 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." He also acknowledged the significant impact the Dodgers had on his career, stating, "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."
A Journey Continues
While Corey Seager's return to Dodger Stadium might have been bittersweet due to his inability to play, his journey and growth in the world of baseball remain compelling. His story serves as an inspiration, showcasing how dedication and talent can lead to extraordinary achievements. As Seager continues to recover and aim for further success with the Rangers, his legacy in both Los Angeles and Texas is firmly cemented. A true testament to his remarkable career, Corey Seager's journey is far from over.