As the World Series shifts to Los Angeles for Game 3, the Dodgers are weighing a significant adjustment to their batting order, with the possibility of sidelining center fielder Andy Pages to inject fresh offense into the lineup.
Pages has endured a tough October, recording just four hits across 43 plate appearances in the playoffs, without a single walk and fanning 11 times.
The young outfielder has been a fixture in the starting nine for all 12 Dodgers contests this month, primarily patrolling center field before shifting to right field in later innings to accommodate defensive standout Justin Dean.
His playoff stats paint a grim picture, posting a .093/.133/.116 slash line, and the prolonged drought has sparked growing scrutiny over his role in the everyday lineup.
Dodgers skipper Dave Roberts has remained supportive of Pages, yet he acknowledges the urgent demand for improved results at the dish.
“He has struggled this postseason,” Roberts said. “What I need from him is to have quality at-bats, to be able to get on base, to win 3-2 pitches. He’s playing very sound defense, which is a big part of why he’s in there. Being in the 9 hole, I’m not expecting him to carry the offense, but still be a contributor. I have contemplated other decisions. I’m keeping a close eye on it. But yeah, I mean, I still need to see some kind of uptick in consistency of performance. So when and if I decide to change — I haven’t decided that, but I’m being mindful.”
During the Dodgers’ Game 2 triumph, Pages managed a 1-for-4 outing. Ahead of the pivotal Game 3 matchup, Roberts faced questions on whether that lone hit might buy Pages additional time or if alterations remain under serious review.
“Still on the table,” Roberts said. “It’s front of mind, just trying to figure out where he’s at mentally, physically. Certainly the performance hasn’t been there. Thinking of other options. So, yeah, it’s certainly on the table.”
Los Angeles pulled the Fall Classic even at one game apiece thanks to their win in Game 2, a result that might convince Roberts to hold off on major tweaks for at least one more contest.
All the same, Pages must step up his production soon, or he risks watching from the dugout as the series intensifies.
