Los Angeles Dodgers⁣ manager Dave Roberts is contemplating a shakeup to his lineup for Game 5 against teh Toronto ⁣Blue Jays,⁤ prompted by the recent⁣ struggles of outfielder andy Pages in the No. 9 spot. Pages is hitting just .080⁢ this postseason, creating a vulnerability that allows opposing pitchers to avoid facing two-way superstar Shohei Ohtani.

Roberts removed Pages from the game in the seventh inning on Tuesday, replacing him with Alex Call. Following the loss, Roberts indicated a lineup adjustment is likely for the next game. “I’m going to think long and⁤ hard, and it might look a little bit different tomorrow,” Roberts stated, according to reports.

Potential ⁤Replacements for Pages

Roberts is weighing options beyond Pages, considering both Call⁤ and Miguel rojas for⁢ the No. 9 role. He ‍outlined the decision as choosing ⁤between Pages, Call,⁢ and Rojas. Rojas has gone hitless in three plate appearances during the World Series, while call is 1-for-5 in two games.

The issue isn’t necessarily⁣ the individual performance of these players, but rather the impact Pages’ ⁢struggles ⁣have on the ⁣Dodgers’ overall offensive strategy. His low ‍batting average gives the Blue Jays the freedom to‍ pitch around Ohtani,a‍ key component of ‍the Dodgers’ offense.

The ⁤Impact of Pages’ Performance

Pages’ struggles are notably concerning because of his position in the batting order. The No. 9 ⁤spot is often seen as an extension of the leadoff position, tasked with turning the lineup ‍over to ohtani. A hitter who can’t ⁤consistently reach base in that spot diminishes Ohtani’s opportunities to drive in runs.

This situation highlights the importance of depth in ‍a postseason lineup. While the Dodgers boast important star power, their success hinges on contributions from all players, especially those⁤ in ⁣the⁢ bottom third of the order.