Where Dodgers could turn next after Andy Pages gets devastating X-ray news as playoffs approach

The Los Angeles Dodgers are considering their options for the center field position after All-Star outfielder Andy Pages suffered a severe hand injury on Friday. The 25-year-old was hit by a 100 mph fastball while playing for the Dodgers in a 5-4 walk-off victory against the Pittsburgh Pirates. Manager Dave Roberts expressed optimism that Pages would return for the remainder of the season, but warned that he could be sidelined for up to five weeks.

Pages had been having a breakout season, ranking fifth among center fielders in defensive runs saved. If Pages is unable to play, the Dodgers will need to find a replacement quickly to maintain their lineup depth. Veteran Kiké Hernández is the most obvious option, but he has played only 16 games this season due to injuries and has struggled at the plate.

Tommy Edman, who is primarily a second baseman and left fielder, is another potential candidate, but the Dodgers may be hesitant to commit him to regular starts in center field. The team also has several outfield prospects, including James Tibbs III and the Double-A prospect Josue De Paula, but they have both shown defensive weaknesses in that position.

Another option is the triple-A prospect Zach Ehrhard, who has had a solid season in Oklahoma City, but would need to be added to the Dodgers' 40-man roster before he could be called up. The Dodgers are expected to make a decision in the coming days, with the goal of having a replacement ready to go for the upcoming postseason run.