Corey Seager didn’t log much time in Major League games during Spring Training, yet he’s been impressive in each test since returning from last year’s Tommy John and arthroscopic hip surgeries.
After a steady build up of checking multiple boxes, Seager didn’t play in a Cactus League game until March 20. He nearly hit a home run in his first at-bat, then got all of Cole Hamels in his next trip to the plate.
Seager’s first regular-season game since April 29, 2018, was equally successful. He contributed to the Dodgers setting an MLB record with eight home runs on Opening Day and benefitted from the offensive explosion by getting off his feet a few innings early.
Opening Day was something Seager has more of appreciation for in light of last year’s season-ending injury, but he attempted to remain focused on the present, via SportsNet LA:
“Yeah. It was just a lot of fun. I tried not to think about it too much and just tried to enjoy the moment like you do every year.”
Dodgers manager Dave Roberts understandably is excited to have the 2016 National League Rookie of the Year back in his lineup, but he’s also cautioned against Seager feeling as though he must carry the team.
That certainly was not the case Thursday, as Kiké Hernandez and Joc Pederson both hit two home runs. In addition to Seager, Austin Barnes, Cody Bellinger and Max Muncy each went deep.
The Dodgers intend to be mindful of Seager’s workload, particularly during the early stages of the season. Already working in their favor is the 24-year-old, now healthy, has quickly demonstrated an ability to contribute any time he’s on the field.
