Statements
Corey Seager made a triumphant return to Dodger Stadium, delivering a clutch, go-ahead, three-run homer that propelled the Texas Rangers to a 3-2 victory on Wednesday night. This game marked Seager's first regular-season appearance at the iconic venue since he departed as a free agent in 2021. Seager signed a massive $325 million, 10-year contract with the Rangers, a deal that underscored his enormous value and potential impact.
Seager's Impactful Return
Seager's three-run blast in the fifth inning off Walker Buehler soared 422 feet and was clocked at 111 mph. This home run was Seager's hardest-hit of the season and tied for the longest shot he has hit this year. The homer also marked Seager's 60th at Dodger Stadium, placing him sixth among active players in home runs at the venue. As of now, Seager has hit 14 home runs this season, showcasing his consistent offensive prowess.
The Dodgers faithful welcomed Seager warmly with a video tribute during Tuesday's series opener, a testament to the fond memories he created during his tenure in Los Angeles. Seager was crowned the 2016 National League Rookie of the Year and the 2020 NL and World Series MVP with the Dodgers, achievements that cement his legacy in Dodger blue. However, after his go-ahead homer on Wednesday, the crowd of 48,930 expressed their displeasure when he came up to bat again, a reminder of the competitive nature of the sport.
Managing Injury Concerns
Seager missed his fourth consecutive game due to a hamstring issue on Tuesday but returned to the lineup as the designated hitter on Wednesday. He went 1-for-3 with a strikeout in his first game back. Rangers manager Bruce Bochy expressed relief and gratitude for Seager's return, acknowledging the significant role he plays in the team's success. "It's good to have Corey back. We saw what he means to us. We missed him," Bochy stated.
Seager is expected to continue serving as the designated hitter for the series finale on Thursday, as the Rangers aim to manage his hamstring issue cautiously. Bochy and the team's medical staff are keen on ensuring Seager remains healthy for the long haul, given his importance to their playoff aspirations.
Dramatic Conclusion
The Rangers held on for the victory when Dodgers rookie Andy Pages ran through a stop sign and was thrown out at the plate for the final out. This dramatic conclusion highlighted the intensity of the game and the high stakes for both teams. Seager's heroics and the Rangers' defensive resilience combined to secure a memorable win.
Quotes
"It kind of comes with the territory, I get it. I don't blame them," Seager commented, reflecting on the mixed reception he received from the Dodger fans. His understanding of the complexities of professional sports and the loyalty of fanbases speaks volumes about his experience and maturity as a player.
The Rangers will look to build on this momentum as they continue their campaign, with Seager expected to play a pivotal role. His performance not only boosts the team's confidence but also sends a message to the rest of the league about the Rangers' potential this season.