In the days leading up to MLB team owners imposing a lockout due to the collective bargaining agreement expiring, Corey Seager was among the flurry of free agents who came off the board.
Seager did so by signing a 10-year, $325 million contract with the Texas Rangers. It marked the end of a near decade-long stint with the Los Angeles Dodgers.
Seager was selected by the organization with the No. 18 overall pick in the 2012 MLB Draft, and he went on to make his big league debut three years later.
In addition to accolades, Seager explained he is grateful for the lifelong friendships made during his time in L.A., via MLB Network:
“I can’t thank the Dodgers enough for what they’ve done for me. What I’ve been able to do for the city, bringing a championship back to them and all the teammates that went along with that, the relationships that we built throughout the years, and the fanbase alone, it’s truly humbling and we’ve appreciated every moment that they’ve given to us. But it was time to start a new chapter and we’re looking forward to it.”
Seager’s career with the Dodgers included a unanimous National League Rookie of the Year Award in 2016, two All-Star Game selections, a pair of Silver Sluggers, and of course MVP of the NL Championship Series and World Series en route helping the team capture the title in 2020.
While it was always unlikely the Dodgers would re-sign all of their free agents, they reportedly attempted to keep Seager on a contract that included over $70 million in deferrals.
The offer fell well short of what the Rangers gave him as Seager will earn $140 million over the first four years of his new deal. He also won’t be subject to paying any state income tax, which gave Texas a unique advantage over other interested teams.
Seager impressed by Rangers’ management, aggressive plan
In addition to the historic contract he received, there were several factors that played a role in Seager’s decision to sign with the Rangers.
The 27-year-old of course is familiar with Rangers manager Chris Woodward from his previous stint as third base coach for the Dodgers.
Seager also noted he has been impressed with the Rangers’ commitment to return to playoff contention. Before the lockout went into effect, Texas also added the likes of Marcus Semien, Jon Gray and Kole Calhoun, which cost the organization more than half a half billion dollars.
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