The Los Angeles Dodgers have maintained their Game 3 lineup as they continue their postseason run. Despite discussions about potential changes, including the possibility of benching struggling center fielder Andy Pages, the team has decided to stick with its current players. Pages, who has faced challenges during the playoffs, remains in the starting nine for the upcoming game.
Dodgers Rely on Consistent Lineup
In Game 3 of the World Series, the Dodgers will field the same nine players used in the National League Championship Series. Andy Pages, who has played in every game this postseason, has struggled significantly. As of now, he is hitting just .093 with one extra-base hit, 11 strikeouts, and no walks.
Manager Dave Roberts acknowledged the possibility of changes, emphasizing his confidence in Pages. He stated, “I want to keep betting on him… until I don’t.” The decision to retain Pages in the lineup indicates the team’s commitment to giving him another chance to perform.
Alternatives Considered
During practice, Kiké Hernández took time to field fly balls in center field. However, the Dodgers opted to keep him in left field and Pages in center. Should they decide to move Hernández to center, Alex Call could step in as the left fielder.
Offensive Struggles Persist
- The Dodgers have not scored more than five runs in a game since the wild-card round.
- The team’s batting average stands at .216 since the division series.
- Freddie Freeman and Shohei Ohtani are both hitting below .225 in the playoffs.
- Mookie Betts has managed only a .136 batting average since the start of the NLCS.
Roberts noted missed opportunities during a previous game against Blue Jays pitcher Kevin Gausman, where the team was unable to capitalize on hittable pitches. His analysis suggests that while the opposing pitchers performed well, the Dodgers allowed chances to slip away.
Looking Ahead
Despite their offensive inconsistencies, Roberts feels that the return to home games may help recalibrate the team’s rhythm. As they prepare for Game 3, expectations will be high for the lineup, particularly for Pages, who has yet to find his stride this postseason.
The Dodgers aim to regain their offensive prowess as they battle for a strong position in the World Series, with hopes that home advantage can revitalize their performance.
