Corey Seager's Return to Dodger Stadium: A Bittersweet Homecoming
Corey Seager made his long-awaited return to Dodger Stadium on Tuesday night for the first time during the regular season since his departure as a free agent after the 2021 season. However, Dodgers fans were disappointed to find that the star shortstop was not in the Texas Rangers' lineup due to a left hamstring injury that has kept him sidelined. As of now, Seager remains day-to-day with the injury, missing his fourth consecutive game on Tuesday.
An Illustrious Career in Dodger Blue
Seager’s connection to Dodger Stadium runs deep. He first returned to the venue during the 2022 All-Star Game, but his regular-season return was anticipated eagerly. During his time with the Dodgers, the 30-year-old shortstop built an impressive resume: he was named the 2016 NL Rookie of the Year, became an All-Star in his first two full seasons, and led the Dodgers to a 2020 World Series title during the COVID-19 pandemic. His performance earned him both the NL MVP and World Series MVP honors.
Reflecting on his achievements, Seager admitted to feeling a bit disoriented upon his return to Dodger Stadium, unfamiliar with the visiting clubhouse. "It got a little confusing for Seager, who wasn’t familiar with the visiting clubhouse," he shared. Despite the changes, the memories of his time with the Dodgers remained strong. "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.
A New Chapter with the Texas Rangers
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, led the Rangers to a World Series championship, and was named the World Series MVP.
Reflecting on his rapid success with the Rangers, Seager remarked, "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 underscore the serendipitous nature of sports, where timing and momentum can make all the difference.
Respect and Reconnection
Dodgers manager Dave Roberts holds Seager in high regard, recalling him as a "superstar, just a heady baseball player, great competitor and performed really well on the biggest of stages." Roberts emphasized, "Any team is better with Corey Seager." The respect between player and former manager was evident as Seager spent time reconnecting with old teammates and reflecting on his journey.
Seager's transition to a new team has not been without its challenges. He acknowledged the disorientation that comes with change, saying, "I had some guys ask me where to go and I didn’t know. It’s been a lot of firsts, for sure." However, his appreciation for the Dodgers organization remains strong. "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 stated.
Optimism Amidst Adversity
Despite the setback caused by his hamstring injury, Seager remains optimistic about his recovery status. He assured fans, "Definitely trending. It’s positive." His resilience and positive attitude reflect his determination to return to the field and contribute to his team's success.
For Corey Seager, his return to Dodger Stadium was a bittersweet experience filled with nostalgia, reflection, and optimism for the future. Although he could not play, his journey is a compelling story of growth, perseverance, and success in the world of baseball.
In Seager's words, "It’s hard not to play every day. You want to be out there with your guys." His return to his old stomping ground, albeit under different circumstances, serves as a testament to the lasting impact he has had on both the Dodgers and now the Rangers. As he continues to build his legacy, fans on both teams will undoubtedly be watching with great anticipation.