Dodgers Activate Andy Pages from Injured List, Hopeful for Offensive Return
After a month-long absence due to a hand fracture, the Los Angeles Dodgers have welcomed back outfielder Andy Pages, but questions linger about his offensive performance.
The Los Angeles Dodgers have officially activated center fielder Andy Pages from the injured list, adding him to the lineup for the final week of the regular season. Pages had been sidelined for one month after suffering a hand fracture on August 22 from a 100 mph hit-by-pitch. His recovery timeline of 4-5 weeks proved accurate, aided by a surgical procedure to accelerate the healing process.
Manager Dave Roberts acknowledged the challenge of predicting Pages' offensive output following the injury, stating he is "expecting good at-bats" but is also "waiting just like you guys are waiting to see how it looks." Historically, broken hands can affect a hitter's feel and strength. Mookie Betts, who experienced a similar injury in 2024, saw a significant decline in his offensive performance for an extended period.
Despite offensive uncertainties, the Dodgers are counting on Pages' contributions, particularly his defense. Pages leads all MLB outfielders with 13 assists this season and ranks second among center fielders with 20 defensive runs saved. Roberts emphasized that this defensive prowess is a "big reason why he’s still a valuable player, even coming off the IL with the uncertainty of the offense." He added, "We’ll still bet on [that, too]."
Before his injury, Pages was having a career-best season, batting .272 with 21 home runs, 80 RBIs, and an .797 OPS. His performance earned him a spot in the All-Star Game and a move to the No. 2 spot in the Dodgers' batting order. In the months leading up to the injury, he showed significant improvement in drawing walks, a notable increase from his previous seasons.
Pages' recovery did not include traditional rehab assignments, as the minor league season was concluding as he healed. He also could not participate in live batting practice sessions. Instead, he engaged in simulated games at Dodger Stadium, alternating between hitting off a machine and facing pitches from coaching staff members while also taking reps in center field. The Dodgers remain confident that his all-around production will be impactful upon his return to the active roster.