Preceding the long-anticipated lockout that officially went into effect on Wednesday night was a flurry of activity in MLB free agency over the past week. Corey Seager was among the players to come off the board as he signed a 10-year, $325 million contract with the Texas Rangers.
The 27-year-old spent the first nine years of his career with the Dodgers after being selected by the organization in the first round of the 2012 MLB Draft. Over parts of seven seasons in L.A., he was named the unanimous National League Rookie of the Year in 2016, won two Silver Slugger Awards and participated in two All-Star Games.
Seager made his biggest mark during the 2020 postseason when he earned NL Championship Series and World Series MVP honors en route to helping the Dodgers capture their first title since 1988.
After his signing with the Rangers was made official, Seager expressed gratitude to his former club and teammates in a heartfelt Instagram post:
Seager’s departure leaves a sizable hole at shortstop for the Dodgers, but they are likely to fill it by simply moving Trea Turner back to his original position for the 2022 season.
While that is considered the most probable outcome, the Dodgers also have explored the possibility of signing Carlos Correa. Though, there are obstacles to a potential deal, as he is expected to command a more lucrative contract than Seager and has a history with L.A.
Seager trying to lure Kershaw away from Dodgers
Shortly after his introductory press conference with the Rangers, Seager revealed that he has been in contact with Clayton Kershaw about continuing to play together.
The Rangers have long been speculated as a potential landing spot for the three-time Cy Young Award winner as he grew up in Dallas, Texas, and still lives in the area during the offseason with his wife, Ellen, and three children.
Have you subscribed to the Dodger Blue YouTube channel? Be sure to ring the notification bell to watch player interviews, participate in shows and giveaways, and stay up to date on all Dodgers news and rumors!
