When the list of 2025 MLB All-Star reserves was announced, Dodger fans noticed their scorching hot center fielder, Andy Pages, was missing. While all-star games have always been seen as a popularity contest with fans voting in their favorite starting players, it appears the players also vote in the cool kids they like instead of those more deserving. Every year sees a handful of all-star “snubs,” but Pages’ surge in the past two months should have put him ahead of some of the selected players.
The Early Struggles: A Rocky Start to the Season
The beginning of the 2025 season presented significant challenges for Andy Pages, who struggled to find his footing during the first 20 games. His batting average plummeted to an alarming .183, a stark contrast to the expectations set by his previous performances and potential as a premier talent within the Dodgers organization. These early struggles can be attributed to a combination of underlying factors that affected his gameplay and overall confidence.
One of the primary issues affecting Pages was the tendency to overthink each at-bat. With the pressure to perform and secure a spot on the All-Star roster, he may have placed an undue burden on himself, leading to a mental block that hindered his natural abilities. Players often find themselves in a cycle of over-analysis, which can prevent them from executing their skills instinctively. This was particularly evident in Pages’ approach at the plate, as he struggled to make solid contact and frequently found himself in unfavorable counts.
In addition to mental challenges, mechanical issues contributed to Pages’ difficulties during this period. As a young player, refining one’s swing is crucial for success at the major league level, and it’s possible that he was grappling with inconsistencies in his technique. Adjustments to stance or swing mechanics necessitate a delicate balance, and any deviation could result in poor performance. This scenario was particularly relevant for Pages, as he aimed to align his mechanics with the expectations of fans and the Dodgers coaching staff.
While these struggles posed significant hurdles for Andy Pages, they also emphasize the resilience and perseverance that often define an athlete’s career. It is essential to consider these early challenges as part of his developmental journey, setting the stage for a remarkable resurgence and reinforcing his potential to be an All-Star player in the future.
Dramatic Turnaround: Pages’ Impressive Statistics
Pages experienced a significant transformation following a challenging start to the 2025 season. Over the course of the subsequent 66 games, Pages exhibited a remarkable resurgence, showcasing a sterling slash line of .326/.348/.559. This impressive offensive performance is highlighted by his ability to hit 17 home runs and drive in 58 runs batted in (RBIs), which positions him as one of the most productive players in the league.
To put this into perspective, Pages’ 150 weighted runs created (wRC) signals that he has not only been productive but has also generated runs at a rate significantly above the league average. This statistic is a crucial metric that evaluates a player’s overall offensive contribution relative to their peers. When compared to other National League outfielders, it becomes evident just how standout his performance has been during this period. For instance, while many outfielders struggled with consistency, Pages remained a reliable contributor for the Dodgers.
Examining the context of his performance reveals that his power numbers and batting average place him alongside top-tier outfield talents. Players who are currently highly regarded for All-Star consideration often find their names mentioned in relation to similar statistics. By aligning his metrics with those recognized as elite, it becomes clear that Pages deserves serious consideration for a spot in the 2025 All-Star Team. His transformation from early-season struggles to a leading offensive threat exemplifies not only personal growth but also the potential impact he could have representing the Dodgers at the All-Star level.
Defensive Prowess: Pages as an Elite Center Fielder
Andy Pages has emerged as a standout player for the Los Angeles Dodgers, particularly known for his exceptional capabilities as a center fielder. Recent metrics illustrate his defensive excellence, placing him in the 94th percentile for outs above average, a statistic that highlights his ability to convert potential hits into outs effectively. Such performance not only underscores his skill but also positions him as a vital asset to the Dodgers’ defense. These figures reflect not just talent, but a remarkable understanding of the game, further demonstrated by his ranking in the 96th percentile for arm strength. This attribute allows Pages to make crucial throws that can deter base runners and minimize scoring opportunities for opposing teams.
Insights from Dodgers’ third base coach Dino Ebel and manager Dave Roberts further emphasize Pages’ development as a player. Ebel has noted that Pages exhibits a keen awareness on the field, combining instinct with athleticism, making him capable of executing difficult plays that many players might struggle with. Roberts has also praised Pages for his mental growth, a vital aspect of excelling in a competitive environment like Major League Baseball. The ability to separate offensive performance from defensive responsibilities demonstrates Pages’ maturity as a player, allowing him to focus on the task at hand rather than the pressures of batting.
As the Dodgers integrate Pages more into their lineup, his defensive skills are likely to be a cornerstone of their strategy. The blend of impressive metrics, insightful coaching perspectives, and Pages’ continual improvement suggests he is not just a promising player but one who could legitimately contend for an All-Star selection in 2025. His defensive prowess strengthens the case for his inclusion in the All-Star roster, ensuring that he will be an important part of the Dodgers’ future success.
The Snub: A Controversial All-Star Selection Process
The All-Star selection process has long been a topic of debate among baseball fans, players, and analysts alike. Every year, the choice of All-Stars often raises eyebrows, and this season was no exception, particularly surrounding the omission of Dodgers outfielder Andy Pages. Fans had high hopes for Pages, who has demonstrated significant potential and skill on the field. However, his candidacy was overshadowed by the inclusion of players such as Fernando Tatis Jr., leading many to perceive his omission as a glaring oversight.
Critics argue that the selection criteria are often inconsistent, with factors such as fan popularity and name recognition frequently overshadowing performance metrics. Pages, who has captured the attention of many with his impressive season stats, was deemed deserving of an All-Star nod. However, the All-Star ballot seemed to favor established stars, regardless of their current performance. This has ignited conversations about how younger talents, like Pages, may find themselves at a disadvantage in the selection process.
Fan reactions on social media have reflected a growing frustration, as many have taken to platforms to voice their support for Pages. Media commentary has echoed these sentiments, with various sports analysts highlighting the stark contrast between the selection of fan-favorite names and emerging talents such as the Dodgers’ own Pages. This discourse emphasizes a crucial point: the All-Star game should ideally represent a balance of established names and commendable up-and-coming players who demonstrate their capabilities on the field.
As we observe the ongoing conversation surrounding the All-Star selections, it becomes evident that there is a rallying call for justice for Andy Pages. His exclusion has fueled discussions on future validation for players who not only excel but also elevate the overall competitive spirit of the game. If Pages continues on his current trajectory, the potential for future All-Star recognition remains bright, and he may soon fulfill the aspirations of many fans and allies in the baseball community.