Steve Webb
As the Rangers roll into town, no doubt there will be a little envy cast toward the Texas dugout. One of the most impactful shortstops in LA Dodgers history is now wearing a Texas Rangers uniform. After the 2021 season, Corey Seager opted for a huge free agent contract with the Rangers, leaving the Dodgers temporarily bereft of a shortsop. The hole was plugged for a little while with Trea Turner, but now that both players have moved on, things have gotten a little dicey at that position. Still, without getting too maudlin about it, it’s worth remembering the impact that Seager had on this organization.
Corey Seager’s tenure with the Los Angeles Dodgers was marked by significant contributions that solidified his reputation as one of the premier shortstops in Major League Baseball (MLB). Seager, drafted by the Dodgers in the first round of the 2012 MLB Draft, quickly ascended through the minor leagues, making his MLB debut in 2015. From the onset, his combination of offensive prowess and defensive reliability made a profound impact on the team.
Offensive Impact
Seager’s offensive capabilities were apparent from his debut season, where he showcased a rare blend of power and contact hitting. In 2016, his first full season, Seager was a force at the plate, hitting .308 with 26 home runs and 72 RBIs. His performance earned him the National League (NL) Rookie of the Year award and a third-place finish in the NL MVP voting. Seager’s ability to hit for both average and power provided a crucial element to the Dodgers’ lineup, making him a cornerstone of their offensive strategy.
In subsequent seasons, Seager continued to deliver at the plate despite battling injuries. His resilience was most evident in the 2020 season. During that shortened season, Seager was instrumental in the Dodgers’ success, hitting .307 with 15 home runs and 41 RBIs in just 52 games. His postseason performance was even more remarkable, earning him both the NLCS MVP and World Series MVP honors. In the World Series, Seager hit .400 with two home runs and five RBIs, leading the Dodgers to their first championship since 1988.
Defensive Improvements
While Seager’s glove will never wow anybody, he turned himself into a solid shortstop. Defensively, Seager’s range, arm strength, and sure-handedness at shortstop provided stability to the Dodgers’ infield. His defensive metrics consistently ranked him among the top shortstops in the league. In 2016, Seager had a DRS of 7, placing him among the top half of shortstops in MLB. In 2020, he posted a DRS of 4, further showcasing his defensive prowess. His defensive prowess complemented his offensive contributions, making him a well-rounded player who could impact the game on both sides of the ball.
Leadership and Intangibles
Beyond his statistical contributions, Seager’s leadership and work ethic set a standard in the Dodgers’ clubhouse. His quiet demeanor and lead-by-example approach earned him the respect of teammates and coaches alike. Seager’s ability to perform in clutch situations further solidified his status as a leader. His poise under pressure was particularly evident in the postseason, where his timely hitting and solid defense were crucial to the Dodgers’ playoff runs.
Legacy with the Dodgers
Seager’s contributions to the Dodgers extended beyond individual accolades. During his time with the team, the Dodgers won eight consecutive NL West titles, solidifying their status as perennial contenders. His role in the 2020 World Series run was a defining moment, ending a 32-year championship drought for the franchise. Seager’s legacy with the Dodgers is marked by his consistent excellence, clutch performances, and role in transforming the team into one of the most successful franchises of the 2010s and early 2020s.
Conclusion
Corey Seager’s tenure with the Los Angeles Dodgers was characterized by his remarkable offensive and defensive contributions, leadership, and ability to perform in crucial moments. His impact on the field and in the clubhouse played a significant role in the Dodgers’ sustained success, culminating in the 2020 World Series championship. Seager’s legacy with the Dodgers will be remembered as one of excellence, resilience, and pivotal contributions to a golden era in the franchise’s history.
