Dodgers News: Andre Ethier Sent Back To LA, NLDS Status In Doubt

Dodgers outfielder Andre Ethier left the game against the Giants on September 13 with an irritated ankle injury and while he tried to get back before the season ended, his playoff status is now in doubt.

Ethier tested his ankle yesterday in San Francisco and after rounding second base just once, he had to shut it down. News got worse this afternoon as Don Mattingly talked about Ethier’s status moving forward to Dylan Hernandez of the LA Times:

Ethier in L.A. being examined by #DrNealElAttrache.

— Dylan Hernandez (@dylanohernandez) September 26, 2013

Mattingly bracing himself for possibility Ethier won’t be available for playoffs.

— Dylan Hernandez (@dylanohernandez) September 26, 2013

Obviously, the Dodgers will know more after the results of the tests come back, but it’s sounding more and more likely that Ethier won’t be available for the NLDS.

However, playoff teams are able to change rosters between rounds so if Ethier can’t go in the first round, he can be added if the Dodgers advance to the NLCS. Without Ethier in the lineup, the Dodgers will rely on Matt Kemp, Carl Crawford and Yasiel Puig moving forward.

Without Kemp in the lineup, Ethier provided great defense and solid hitting as he helped keep the team afloat when Kemp and Crawford were out of the lineup. If the injury lingers longer and Ethier is done for the year, it’s possible he’s played his last game in a Dodger uniform as many expect the Dodgers to trade one of the four outfielders in the offseason.

Hopefully the tests come back positive as the Dodgers look to be moving forward without Ethier and his production will definitely be missed.

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In case you missed it, here’s the Dodgers pool celebration, PLUS Yasiel Puig’s celebration dance off!

http://youtu.be/LknQOqL7uME