Corey Seager's Return to Dodger Stadium: A Bittersweet Homecoming
Corey Seager's First Visit Since Departure
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. Fans eagerly awaited his presence but were disappointed to find that he was not in the Texas Rangers’ lineup due to a left hamstring injury that has kept him sidelined. Seager remains day-to-day with this injury, marking the fourth consecutive game he’s missed.
Seager's initial return to Dodger Stadium came during the 2022 All-Star Game, but this recent visit held more personal significance. The 30-year-old shortstop, who earned his reputation wearing Dodger blue, admitted to feeling a bit disoriented upon his return. He confessed to being unfamiliar with the visiting clubhouse, a testament to how much things have changed since his time with the Dodgers.
Building a Stellar Career in Los Angeles
Seager had a heroic run with the Dodgers, where he won the 2016 NL Rookie of the Year award and became an All-Star in his first two full seasons. His most notable achievement was leading the Dodgers to the 2020 World Series title during the COVID-19 pandemic. Seager not only won NL MVP but also earned the World Series MVP honors during that incredible run.
Seager spent time reconnecting with old teammates, reflecting on his journey, and acknowledging the immense role the Dodgers played in shaping his career. "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," Seager commented.
A New Chapter with the Rangers
As a testament to his talent and potential, 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. He earned All-Star selections in both 2022 and 2023 and played a crucial role in leading the Rangers to a World Series championship, once again earning the World Series MVP honors.
Dodgers manager Dave Roberts has a high opinion of his former shortstop. “Any team is better with Corey Seager,” Roberts said. He described Seager as a "superstar, just a heady baseball player, great competitor and performed really well on the biggest of stages."
A Bittersweet Reunion
Corey Seager’s return to Dodger Stadium served as a reflective and emotional journey. While the fans were disappointed by his absence from the lineup due to his injury, Seager remained optimistic about his recovery. "Definitely trending. It’s positive," Seager said, offering hope that he will soon return to the field.
The memories, emotions, and nostalgia were palpable as Seager retraced steps from his significant years with the Dodgers. "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 reminisced.
Reflecting on his rapid success with the Rangers, Seager added, "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." His words highlight the sometimes unpredictable yet rewarding journey of professional athletes.
Looking Ahead
Corey Seager’s return to Dodger Stadium, hindered by his inability to play, was a time for reflection and appreciation of his journey. His story stands as a compelling narrative of growth, perseverance, and success in the world of baseball. Seager’s optimism about his injury status and his expressed gratitude towards both the Dodgers and the Rangers encapsulate his professional and personal growth.
As fans and teammates await his return to the diamond, Seager’s legacy continues to grow, characterized by his remarkable achievements and unwavering love for the game. This bittersweet reunion might have been marred by an injury, but it served as a reminder of the indelible mark Seager has left, both in Los Angeles and in Texas.