PHOENIX — In World Series Game 1, Corey Seager delivered a crucial hit by crushing a first-pitch fastball into the stands. In Game 5, he showed his skill by skillfully avoiding a changeup, battling through two curveballs, and managing to squib a third curveball through the open left side of the infield.
Seager’s hit in the seventh inning ended Zac Gallen’s dominant no-hit bid and led to the Rangers taking the lead. Ultimately, Seager played a crucial role in helping the Rangers win their first World Series in franchise history, earning himself the World Series MVP honors for the second time in his career.
Throughout the game, the series, the postseason, and the year, Seager has proven himself to be an exceptional hitter. He is not just a force, but a contemporary terror, consistently staying ahead of the curve, whether it be against fastballs, sliders, or changeups.
Mitch Garver, the Rangers’ designated hitter, describes Seager as an attacking hitter who tries to get you from the very first pitch. Seager’s aggressive approach allows him to beat pitchers in various ways.
During the playoffs, Seager had a batting average of .318 with six home runs, following an impressive regular season where he posted a .327/.390/.623 line with 33 home runs in only 119 games. In terms of park-adjusted wRC+, he ranked as the third-best hitter in baseball, behind Shohei Ohtani and Ronald Acuña Jr.
Seager, known for his power and ability to hit for average, has taken his game to a whole new level in 2023. People in the game have noticed his progression and recognized his improvement in being highly selective at the plate.
Both Diamondbacks manager Torey Lovullo and Rangers teammate Max Scherzer emphasize different aspects of Seager’s greatness. Lovullo believes Seager’s peak performance is a result of his selectivity, while Scherzer highlights his aggression and ability to hit any pitch.
Statcast data shows that Seager swung at pitches in the strike zone more often than any other hitter in 2023. However, he also maintains a relatively average chase rate. As a result, Seager does significant damage against pitches in the heart of the zone.
According to Tampa Bay Rays closer Pete Fairbanks, Seager excels at being aggressive with pitches he knows he can hit while also making great decisions on pitches he should avoid swinging at.
Seager’s refusal to fall into pitchers’ traps, combined with his constant readiness to hit a home run, makes him an incredibly intimidating hitter. He rarely wastes pitches and consistently adjusts his approach to cover any missed opportunities.
Seager’s adaptability and success at the plate are a result of his meticulous preparation. He spends hours studying video and data, analyzing his swing, and making adjustments. Seager’s belief in honing his biomechanics allows him to solve a wide range of pitching challenges.
Teammates and opponents alike are in awe of Seager’s greatness at the plate. Manager Bruce Bochy describes him as incredible, while rookie Evan Carter acknowledges that even if pitchers hit their spots, Seager still has the ability to crush the ball.
