Corey Seager’s Return to Dodger Stadium: A Bittersweet Homecoming
Corey Seager came back 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. However, fans were disappointed to find that Seager wasn’t in the Texas Rangers’ lineup due to a left hamstring injury that has kept him sidelined. Seager remains day-to-day with the injury, and Tuesday marked the fourth consecutive game he’s missed since being sidelined.
Seager had earlier returned to Dodger Stadium during the 2022 All-Star Game, but this visit carried its own weight of nostalgia and introspection, especially given his distinguished tenure with the Dodgers. The 30-year-old shortstop first established his reputation in Dodger blue, earning the 2016 NL Rookie of the Year award and becoming an All-Star in his first two full seasons. Seager was a pivotal player in leading the Dodgers to the 2020 World Series title during the COVID-19 pandemic, earning both NL MVP and World Series MVP honors in the process.
Seager's Impact and Achievements
Seager admitted to feeling a bit disoriented upon his return to Dodger Stadium, particularly due to unfamiliarity with the visiting clubhouse. Seager’s departure from the Dodgers led him to free agency, where he signed a monumental $325 million, 10-year deal with the Rangers. His performance with Texas has been nothing short of remarkable, earning All-Star selections in both 2022 and 2023, and leading the Rangers to a World Series championship where he was named World Series MVP.
Admiration from the Dodgers
Dodgers manager Dave Roberts holds 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." The return to Dodger Stadium allowed Seager to reconnect with old teammates and reflect on his journey that has seen him grow, persevere, and achieve success in the world of baseball.
Optimism Amid Injury
Despite being unable to play, Seager remains optimistic about his injury status. He commented, "Definitely trending. It’s positive." Seager acknowledged the disorientation that comes with change, reflecting on his development under the Dodgers’ organization, "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."
He also shared the sentiment of his unexpected and rapid success with the Rangers, saying, "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."
Bittersweet Homecoming
Corey Seager’s return to Dodger Stadium may have been bittersweet due to his inability to play, but it provided a meaningful opportunity to reflect on his roots and the journey that has defined his career. As he walked through the stadium and interacted with familiar faces, old memories came rushing back. "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.
Seager expressed the difficulty of being sidelined, voicing a sentiment common among athletes: "It’s hard not to play every day. You want to be out there with your guys." The unusual situation even caused some humorous confusion, as he didn’t have the usual insider knowledge to guide his new teammates around the stadium. "I had some guys ask me where to go and I didn’t know. It’s been a lot of firsts, for sure," he admitted.
Seager’s return was more than just a visit; it was a reminder of the athletic excellence and resilience that define his career. His story continues to be one of growth, perseverance, and exemplary success, motivating fans and players alike. As he continues to recover, both fans and teammates eagerly await his return to full health and his next contributions on the field. The journey of Corey Seager is one that remains compelling and inspiring in the world of baseball.