Dodgers News: Skip Schumaker Set To Start In Center Field In NLDS

The Dodgers finally touched down in Atlanta yesterday afternoon and are set to have their first workout at Turner Field this morning.

While it sounds like Andre Ethier will make the roster as a pinch-hitter at first, there’s a chance that he could start Game 3 at Dodger Stadium if he responds to treatment. Manager Don Mattingly held a press conference before the workout and all but announced his starting center fielder for Games 1 and 2 according to Bob Nightengale of USA Today:

Schumacher will definitely start in CF if Ethier can’t go

— Bob Nightengale (@BNightengale) October 2, 2013

It’s not surprising that the Dodgers would turn to the veteran Schumaker as he’s been apart of two World Series teams with the Cardinals.

This season, Schumaker has appeared in 74 games in the outfield, but only made 17 starts in center field. While he’s a solid hitter with a .263 average, the Dodgers will really miss the production from stars Matt Kemp and Ethier.

In yesterday’s workout at Dodger Stadium, Jerry Hairston along with Scott Van Slyke and Dee Gordon took fly balls in center, but that seemed like nothing more than getting familiar with the position.

Mattingly also said that he and the coaching staff have come up with the roster, but it’s important that they tell the players before announcing it to the media. General manager Ned Colletti said earlier this week that there were six player fighting for two or three spots, but the decision about the starting center fielder has been decided.

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In case you missed it, here’s the latest on Andre Ethier’s ankle injury.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KogAcerJqaQ