Los Angeles Dodgers center fielder Andy Pages is on the fast track to recovery after undergoing hand surgery just over a week ago. The procedure was necessitated by a fracture sustained when he was struck by a 100 mph fastball, an injury that initially left him in considerable pain.
Pages suffered the fracture during a game against the Pittsburgh Pirates on August 22, where he had to exit early due to the injury. Despite his efforts to continue playing through the discomfort, medical evaluations confirmed the severity of the situation, leading to his surgery. This season, Pages has emerged as a standout player for the Dodgers, earning an All-Star selection and contributing significantly to the team's performance amidst a challenging year for many of his teammates.
Known for his exceptional defensive skills and improving batting average, Pages has become an integral part of the Dodgers' roster. His return to the field appears to be on the horizon, as he has already begun to show signs of recovery. During a recent segment on "Dodgers Talk" with host David Vassegh, Dodgers hitting coach Aaron Bates provided an optimistic update, stating that Pages is expected to start swinging a bat soon and is currently experiencing no pain.
Bates mentioned, "He hasn’t swung yet as far as hitting a ball. But he said I think it was the next couple of days or so he was going to practice. It’s just dry swings at first. There’s a progression." This gradual approach to his rehabilitation indicates that the Dodgers are taking a cautious yet hopeful stance on Pages' recovery.
Initially, the prognosis for Pages was a recovery timeline of four to five weeks following his injury, which would put him in line to potentially return just before the postseason begins. While this may not afford him as many games as desired to regain full form, it is certainly better than returning directly from the injured list without any preparation.
Pages has been a valuable asset to the Dodgers this season, boasting a 3.9 fWAR and a 119 wRC+, which reflects his ability to contribute both offensively and defensively. His on-base percentage has improved, and he is walking more frequently, showcasing his development as a hitter. Defensively, he ranks just behind Pete Crow-Armstrong in key defensive metrics, solidifying his reputation as a reliable outfielder.
Despite some mental lapses that have occasionally marred his play, Pages' overall contributions to the Dodgers have been significant. As he continues his recovery, the next milestones will involve fielding and swinging the bat, both crucial steps in his rehabilitation process. For now, the absence of pain is a positive sign as he embarks on this journey back to the field, with the postseason looming on the horizon.
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