Strange as it may sound, Corey Seager had a turn-back-the-clock performance Tuesday night against the New York Mets, providing an emphatic reminder the Los Angeles Dodgers are much more than rookie Cody Bellinger.
Seager produced his fifth career multi-home run game and second three-home run effort. It was reminiscent of the spark Seager provided in 2015 and again last season en route to becoming the unanimous National League Rookie of the Year.
Bellinger, who also homered in the rout and became just the second Dodgers player with 10 home runs in 10 games, was among Seager’s strongest supporters. “That was awesome to watch,” Bellinger said. “He’s a special talent, I think he’s the best shortstop in the game.”
The performance by the young sluggers overshadowed Brandon McCarthy’s six shutout innings. It was McCarthy’s sixth start in a row with two earned runs or fewer allowed. Though, he was keenly aware postgame who was going to draw headlines.
“Nobody is watching this interview right now,” McCarthy quipped. “I think Seager got mad and decided to give some balls away. It’s really fun to watch those guys hit.”
The mild-mannered Seager hardly wanted to steal the spotlight from Bellinger. “He’s been great. What he’s doing is special,” Seager said.
Considered one of the best shortstops in baseball, Seager himself has been on a recent tear. Over his past 10 games, the 23-year-old is batting .415/.500/.829 with five doubles, four home runs and 13 RBI.
“Stuff is kind of coming together, I’m on time, it’s starting to come around a little bit,” Seager explained. “It just all started syncing up, feeling better and getting on time again. Everything is connected.”
Seager was in position to slug a fourth home run on the night, which would’ve come in the form of a grand slam. His drive to left field was caught at the warning track. While it was not a focal point, Seager said he was aware of the situation when he stepped into the batter’s box.
No matter how well Seager may fare from the plate, the quest to his best swing, which he said was lacking last season despite a phenomenal year, remains a work in progress.
“You’re always looking for your best swing,” Seager humbly said. “Always searching, always looking for it.”
