THE REUNION QUESTION: If Corey Seager is on the Trade Block, Should the Dodgers Bring Him Back?.vc

(LOS ANGELES) — The baseball world is buzzing with the shocking news that the Texas Rangers, desperately trying to shed payroll, might be forced to make the ultimate move: trading World Series MVP Corey Seager. While the Rangers have downplayed the speculation, the theoretical possibility of acquiring the former franchise cornerstone has ignited the “Will they or won’t they?” debate among Dodgers fans.

Seager still has six years and approximately 186$ million remaining on his contract.² But for the Dodgers, a team with championship aspirations and immense financial flexibility, the question isn’t if they can afford him, but should they bring back their former hero?

The Case For The Reunion

Trading for Seager, the homegrown star who won the 2020 World Series MVP with Los Angeles, offers undeniable benefits:

• Elite Power Bat: Seager remains one of the most productive left-handed hitters in baseball.³ He instantly provides the consistent, middle-of-the-order power the Dodgers lost when Cody Bellinger departed.
• Ultimate Versatility: With Mookie Betts having successfully transitioned to shortstop, Seager would naturally slide to Second Base—a position he is more than qualified to fill and one the Dodgers have not solidified. This move would create the most imposing right-side infield duo in the league.
• The Draft Pick Advantage: The Dodgers have arguably the deepest farm system in baseball.⁴ They possess the high-end, controllable pitching prospects (like Dalton Rushing or Nick Frasso) that the Rangers are reportedly seeking in return for Seager. The money is not an issue; the prospects are the currency.

The Case Against The Reunion

For President Andrew Friedman, who is famously cautious about long-term financial commitments and prioritizing controllable talent, the risks are significant:

• Injury History: Seager has missed time in each of the last two seasons, and committing to his contract through his age-37 season carries high risk, especially given his history of lower-body issues.⁵
• Roster Logjam: While Seager would be an upgrade, the move creates a logjam at the corners, potentially forcing out current players like Max Muncy or limiting the playing time of rising prospects like Alex Freeland.
• Financial Flexibility Compromised: Signing Seager would effectively lock the Dodgers into a $$$30+$ million AAV for the next six years, potentially restricting future pursuits of generational talents like Munetaka Murakami or other high-end free agents in 2027 and beyond.

The trade is not likely to happen unless Rangers ownership mandates a severe payroll slash. But if the door truly opens, the Dodgers have all the necessary components—money, prospects, and a positional need—to complete the emotional, franchise-altering reunion.