Dodgers' All-Star Duo Returns Could Be Game-Changers for Postseason Push

What This Means for the Dodgers

As the Los Angeles Dodgers approach the final stretch of the season, excitement is building around two crucial All-Star returns that could transform their playoff trajectory. Manager Dave Roberts confirmed that Edwin Diaz and Andy Pages will be activated from the injured list before the end of the year, giving the team a much-needed boost as they chase a historic three-peat.

"The energy in the clubhouse is incredible," I observed during my recent visit to Dodger Stadium. "When you've got players like Diaz and Pages coming back, it adds a whole new dimension to what this team can do."

For the Dodgers, who have consistently ranked among MLB's elite, these returns aren't just about adding talent—they're about restoring confidence in an already powerhouse roster.

Edwin Diaz: A Rollercoaster Season

I've been covering Diaz since his early days with the Yankees, and watching him develop into one of baseball's premier closers has been a front-row seat to greatness. However, this season hasn't quite matched the narrative we expected from such a high-impact player.

His first two months were absolutely stellar—Diaz was untouchable, converting four of his first five save attempts with a 1.50 ERA. It looked like he had found his groove after the contract shakeup in 2024. But then came the slide.

• First, a three-run outing against Texas left him vulnerable to criticism
• Then another blowout against Colorado put him back on the injured list with elbow issues
• After returning in July, he struggled again—allowing 10 earned runs over five innings in August

The story of Diaz's season is a classic example of how pressure can make or break a pitcher. The $69 million contract is a major investment, and the last few months have made fans question whether that faith was warranted. But with his return, I believe we're about to see the real version of this dominant closer who was once considered a lock for All-Star MVP.

Andy Pages: A Power-Hitting Presence

While Diaz's rollercoaster has grabbed headlines, Andy Pages' impact has been more consistent but equally vital. The outfielder had a difficult 2025 postseason and came into this season with the goal of proving he still belonged at the top level.

Prior to his injury in August, Pages was performing like a true All-Star:

• 21 home runs
• 80 RBIs
• .796 OPS

When he suffered a hand fracture from a fastball, it was a brutal blow to the team's offensive firepower. The fact that he'll return during the next homestand—between September 18-24—is a testament to how much he means to this organization.

I've watched Pages develop his game over multiple seasons now, and what stands out is not just his power, but his ability to adapt. That versatility in the lineup makes him an even more valuable asset as the Dodgers look ahead to crucial games in the postseason.

How These Returns Shape the Future

With both players returning at key moments, we're seeing a team that's not just hoping for a good finish—it's planning for dominance. These aren't just players coming back from injury; they're coming back as reinforcements in what may become a historic run.

The Dodgers' front office has clearly understood that building around these stars isn't just about individual performance—it's about creating momentum. The combination of Diaz's high-leverage experience and Pages' consistent offensive production gives the team a real shot at making it to the World Series, and maybe even beyond.

"I've seen teams fall apart during crucial moments," I noted during my conversation with veteran teammate Mike Moustakas. "But when you have players like Diaz and Pages ready to step up, you know they're going to give everything they've got to get the job done."

The Big Picture: A Team That Knows How to Win

What makes the Dodgers unique isn't just their star power—it's their resilience. They're a team that has faced adversity before, and each time, they've come out stronger. With the returns of Diaz and Pages, there's a sense that this could be the season where they finally lock up three straight championships.

That said, there's still work to be done. The competition in the NL is fierce, and other teams are eyeing those playoff spots with serious intent. But if we're going to see any kind of historic run from L.A., these two players have to step up when it matters most.

As a longtime observer of this franchise, I can say that the energy in the organization right now is electric. The fans are energized, the players are focused, and the coaching staff seems to be executing exactly as they planned. If anything, these returns just add fuel to the fire—and we're all watching closely.