Dodgers Bar Andy Pages from Using ABS Challenges Following Game 1 Struggles
Manager Dave Roberts confirmed that the Dodgers will prevent Andy Pages from utilizing the Automated Ball-Strike system for challenges moving forward.
Los Angeles Dodgers manager Dave Roberts announced that the team will prohibit Andy Pages from using the Automated Ball-Strike (ABS) challenge system for the remainder of the postseason. This decision follows a critical failed challenge by Pages in the first inning of Game 1 of the National League Division Series against the Atlanta Braves.
Pages challenged a two-strike pitch that was clearly within the strike zone, costing the Dodgers one of their limited challenges early in the game. This incident marked a continuation of Pages' struggles with the ABS system throughout the season. Roberts had previously indicated that players would face restrictions on ABS challenges if they did not demonstrate sound judgment.
"We talked a lot this year about Andy’s success rate or lack thereof [with ABS]," Roberts stated. Pages led the Dodgers with 14 unsuccessful challenges during the regular season and had a 44% success rate, ranking fifth-worst among the club's hitters with at least five challenges. "I didn’t revisit it before Game 1 yesterday, so that’s my fault. I did have a conversation today. So, yeah, we’ve managed that one going forward."
When asked if this meant Pages was barred from using challenges, Roberts answered, "Yes."
Despite his difficulties with ABS challenges, Pages had a successful regular season, earning his first career All-Star selection. He batted .274 with 23 home runs, 85 RBIs, and an .811 OPS. He also established himself as a top center fielder, contributing 4.5 wins above replacement according to Fangraphs, despite missing time due to a fractured hand.
The postseason, however, has presented challenges for the 25-year-old. Last year, Pages experienced a significant slump in the playoffs, going 4-for-51 with 11 strikeouts in 16 games. Though he had memorable moments, including a play that led to an opponent's error and an iconic catch, he lost his starting lineup spot by the end of the World Series.
His performance in Game 1, where he went 0-for-4 with three strikeouts in addition to the failed ABS challenge, contributed to Roberts' concern that Pages might be "trying to do too much." Roberts expressed a desire to see Pages "slow down a little bit" entering the postseason, noting that he had been playing well prior to it. For now, Pages will have one less strategic option available to him as the Dodgers continue their playoff run.