The Los Angeles Dodgers are calling up outfielder Alek Thomas to replace Andy Pages after they lost the first-time All-Star to injury.
After getting hit by a pitch in the third inning, Pages was writhing in pain; it was a 99 mph fastball in on his left hand that caught him flush.
Manager Dave Roberts and the medical staff came out to check on him, but Pages stayed in the game and even played defense during the next defensive frame.
However, in the fifth inning, Pages was replaced by Kike Hernandez at center field, and after the game, it was revealed that the pitch that hit him caused a fractured hand.
Now, Pages is going to be out for at least four weeks, and he may need surgery, though no decision has been made.
Regardless, if he has or has passed on surgery, Pages’ timeline remains the same, according to Roberts.
With him going on the injured list, the Dodgers get a roster spot opened up to try to add some outfield depth; LA announced the team is going with former Arizona Diamondbacks outfielder Alek Thomas.
Thomas was designated for assignment from the D-Backs earlier in the season, and the Dodgers swept in on the former top prospect to add him and give him a chance to develop in the minor leagues.
What does Alek Thomas bring to the Dodgers?
In 55 games, Thomas is hitting .296/.362/.493 with seven home runs and 40 RBIs. He also has four stolen bases, 36 strikeouts, and 23 walks to boot.
Defensively, Thomas has all of the talent to be a really good center fielder, with consistency being the thing that stopped him last time he played in the major leagues.
Thomas also failed to prove he could hit major league pitching consistently with the D-Backs, which led the organization to move on from him.
However, with the Dodgers, he is making more contact down in Triple-A, and he looks to be benefiting from a change of scenery.
If he can hit at a league-average level, his defense and speed can shine at the highest level and be a serviceable replacement for Pages, who has been valuable on both ends of the field.
