Los Angeles Dodgers center fielder Andy Pages suffered a fractured hand on Friday night after being struck by a 100 mph fastball, a development that could sideline him for up to 4-5 weeks and potentially impact the team's playoff push. The injury occurred during the Dodgers' 5-4 walk-off victory over the Pittsburgh Pirates.
Manager Dave Roberts expressed hope for Pages' return this season, stating he anticipates the All-Star will aim for an earlier recovery. "I would expect him back, knowing him, on the earlier side," Roberts said. "But I feel for him because he was having such a good year and he likes to play. But yeah, we’ve got to move on and hold down the fort until he’s back."
Pages, 25, has been a breakout performer for the Dodgers in 2026. Entering Friday's game, he was hitting .272 with 21 home runs and 80 RBIs, boasting a career-best .797 OPS. His defensive prowess was also notable, ranking fifth in the majors with a plus-18 mark in defensive runs saved. His injury leaves a significant void in both offense and defense.
Further evaluation this weekend will determine if Pages requires surgery. Regardless, the team must now devise a strategy to cover center field. Kiké Hernández, a veteran with center field experience, is a primary option, though his season has been hampered by injuries, and he has struggled at the plate recently. Roberts also mentioned utilityman Tommy Edman as a possibility, although the team has predominantly used him at second base and left field this season.
A potential solution from the minor leagues could be Alek Thomas, a five-year MLB veteran acquired earlier this season. Thomas has performed well in Triple-A, hitting .297 in 54 games. The Dodgers also have other outfield prospects like James Tibbs III and Josue De Paula, though they are primarily corner outfielders. Zach Ehrhard, also in Triple-A, is having a productive season but would need to be added to the 40-man roster.
"We’re going to huddle up tonight and see who we bring," Roberts said. "You’ve got to be mindful of the defense, certainly in center field … We’ll piece it together. I’m not sure right now, but I do think that the main thing is locking down center field."
The team's immediate focus is to stabilize the center field position for the short term, with the hope that Pages can return in time for the postseason, as the Dodgers pursue their third consecutive World Series title.