Dodgers infielder Tommy Eldman returns to St. Louis Busch Field: 'A truly special moment'

Tommy Edman has accomplished almost everything a player can achieve at Tommy Edman's Busch Field, but when he arrived with the Dodgers in the early hours of Saturday morning (St. Louis local time), he found himself needing to readjust. The player, who was drafted by the St. Louis Cardinals in 2016 and made his major league debut in 2019, even needed to fumble for a spot in the smashing cage in the visiting locker room.

"The door was different when I walked into the field from the parking lot entrance," Edelman explained, "and I realized: 'It's really different. '"

In the seventh inning against his old club, Edelman completed his first career comeback with a strong right field first base hit. When he stepped onto first base, former teammate Willson Contreras was waiting for a welcome hug.

"It's cool," Eedman said of the fans cheering after the Dodgers' 5-0 loss, "and being recognized after playing for this team for a few years is definitely a truly special moment for me." I would like to thank all those who are here today. "

Since his last appearance at Bush Field, Edelman's career has changed dramatically. In a three-way trade at the 2024 731 trade deadline, he was sent to Los Angeles — Dodgers sent Miguel Vargas and two minor league players to the Chicago White Sox in exchange for Erdman and Michael Kopech. The trade took place at the time of his injury list due to his wrist post-operative recovery.

Within four months, he became a World Series champion and National League Championship MVP, made it to the heart of the Dodgers' lineup, and signed a long-term contract extension. The contract will bring the San Diego native closer to home for the remainder of his career.

"It's been almost a year since I joined Dodger," he says, "and time flies, but at the same time I feel connected to everyone in the Dodge organization." "

The only Golden Glove award of Edelman's career was won during his time with the Cardinals (2021 Second Baseman Award). During his five seasons with the Cardinals, he posted a 0.265 batting average and 0.726 attack index, completed 106 base thefts and hit 53 home runs, and displayed top-tier defense at all defensive positions except first baseman, pitcher, and catcher.

"Back on my St. Louis debut, I was just a hairy kid who walked into the locker room at 24," Edman recalled, "and I wasn't a top rookie and I was nervous. Now that I'm back here, there's a sense of familiarity. "

When asked how he would define himself now (if he was young), the 30-year-old replied with a wry smile: "Experienced." Experienced and wise. "

In 2023, he made history by representing South Korea in the World Baseball Classic, alongside current Dodgers teammate Hyeseong Kim. Edelman, whose mother was born in South Korea, became the first American-born player to represent South Korea in a major international tournament.

Due to an injury during the trade, Edelman was unable to officially say goodbye to the fans at St. Louis Stadium. He looked forward to taking this opportunity to express his gratitude to the Cardinals for their support over the past five years.

"Last year, the trade came so suddenly, and the 731 deadline was sent away without warning," he explained, "and he hasn't been back in St. Louis since." "

"I think it's going to be emotional," Dodgers head coach Dave Roberts said before the game, "and it's the first and only team to give him an early chance." He has a strong bond with the coaches and the players, and the fans value him as much as every player. It's going to be emotional and meaningful. "

A new injury almost ruined the return trip. Edelman was on the injured roster this season with a sprained right ankle and recurred against the Mets this week. He played in seven innings on Tuesday but did not play again on Wednesday.

Despite the fear of returning to the injury list, the rest allowed him to fully recover. Edelman said on Friday that he was 100 percent recovered and ready to return.

"The most valuable thing about Cardinal fans is that they value history and appreciate the dedication of their players," said Edelman, "and it's great to be there again. I have nothing but praise for their full support for the team. "

The fans reciprocated with equal enthusiasm – when Edelman stepped into the strike zone for the first time, the crowd stood up and cheered. He gave a final greeting to the start of his career with a light touch on his helmet and returned to the arena where he had continued his journey.