Andy Pages Passes on World Baseball Classic to Double Down on Dodgers

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LOS ANGELES, Calif. -- Los Angeles Dodgers outfielder Andy Pages has reportedly declined the opportunity to represent Team Cuba in the 2026 World Baseball Classic, opting to remain with the Dodgers throughout the spring as he prepares for the upcoming MLB season.

The decision reflects a calculated approach by the 25-year-old, who is coming off a career-defining year and appears focused on taking the next step as an everyday contributor on a championship contender.

Pages enjoyed a breakout sophomore campaign in 2025, establishing himself as a legitimate power threat in the Dodgers’ lineup. He finished the season with 27 home runs while slashing .272/.313/.461, production that added another layer of depth to an already star-studded offense.

While his overall numbers were impressive, Pages has been candid about areas that still need refinement, particularly his plate discipline. His walk rate dipped below five percent, an indicator that opposing pitchers were often able to exploit his aggressiveness.

Still, the Dodgers’ roster construction has allowed Pages to grow without being asked to carry the offense. Surrounded by elite talent, he has been able to focus on impact contact, run production, and defensive consistency.

That environment likely played a role in his decision to stay in camp rather than shift attention to international play.

Despite the offseason addition of Kyle Tucker, Pages’ role in Los Angeles remains secure. He is expected to open the 2026 season as the Dodgers’ starting center fielder, with Alex Call currently projected as the primary backup at the position.

Pages’ combination of power, range, and arm strength gives him a strong foothold in the lineup, and the organization views him as a core piece moving forward.

From Cuba’s perspective, Pages’ absence is significant. The national team’s World Baseball Classic roster is still coming together, and Pages would have brought middle-of-the-order potential and the ability to play a premium defensive position.

His presence could have altered the dynamic of the lineup and provided a reliable source of power against top international competition.

For a team with championship expectations, having a young breakout star fully committed to preparation may be just as valuable as any midseason acquisition.

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