Dodgers manager makes bold claim about Andy Pages in center field

""No. 1, I think his body has changed over a few years," Roberts began. "I think his intent to become a really, really good defender in center field, he's valued it. He's put in the work. "If you look at center fielders in the big leagues, both sides of the ball, he's got to be top three or four. And just as far as the defense part of it, he takes real pride in it. That's something that a lot of young players don't get there, or they get there late. They care about their hitting more. "Andy values the defense.""

""I believed in him," Roberts said. "The thing is, I know we challenged him when he was scuffling, what's going to keep you in the big leagues is to go out there and play good defense. He took that to heart.""

""It's a combo. It's both," Roberts said. "You have to be comfortable. It takes time. But the maturing and realizing what's important, what will keep you here, what will help you succeed in the big leagues, that's the maturing part. He's doing great.""

"Through the first seven weeks of the regular season, Pages ranks second among qualified center fielders in defensive runs saved (12) and Statcast Fielding Run Value (6), trailing only the Chicago Cubs' Pete Crow-Armstrong in both categories. Pages has started 47 of the Dodgers' 48 games in center field, co"

Andy Pages has earned praise for defensive performance in center field alongside his success at the plate. Dodgers manager Dave Roberts credited changes in Pages’ body, strong intent to become a standout defender, and consistent work to improve his glove and arm. Roberts emphasized that center fielders must be among the best in the majors on both offense and defense, and that Pages takes real pride in defense more than many young players. After early struggles, Roberts maintained confidence and challenged him to focus on defense to stay in the big leagues. Pages’ maturation and growing comfort with the team have supported his progress. Early 2026 metrics show him ranking near the top in defensive runs saved and Statcast Fielding Run Value.

Read at Dodger Blue