The Los Angeles Dodgers entered Spring Training again as one of the World Series favorites, which is justified considering their combination of youth and professional veterans. Amongst those veterans is outfielder Andre Ethier, now entering his 12th Major League season.
Although he was on the disabled list at the time, Ethier earned a full no-trade clause last April by virtue of becoming a player with 10-and-5 rights — spending 10 consecutive seasons in the Majors, including the past five with the same club. Prior to that point, he was the subject of trade rumors.
Now in the final phase of his Major League career, the two-time All-Star has a renowned approach, ready to contribute in any fashion possible. Knowing this could very well be his final season with the Dodgers, Ethier is prepared to help the club capture that elusive World Series title.
So much so that Ethier informed the Dodgers he was not interested in waiving his no-trade clause, according to Dylan Hernandez of the L.A. Times:
Still, he made it a point to contact the Dodgers’ front office in the off-season and told them to not bother looking for a deal he might approve.
“I wasn’t sure if there was a better opportunity somewhere else, but this is where I want to be,” Ethier said. “I feel like I’m a Dodger. I really am. I’m a guy who will always be tied to this organization.”
Although Ethier’s desire is to remain with the organization, Dodgers manager Dave Roberts has openly stated the veteran outfielder isn’t expected to be an everyday player this season. Ethier figures to see time in both corner outfield positions. First base could also be an option, and Ethier got repetitions at the position on Saturday.
He was on track for a strong 2016 season until sustaining a fractured tibia last spring as a result of fouling a pitch off. Ethier went on to appear in just 16 games last season upon returning in September.
The 34-year-old has a $17.5 million option for next season that vests if Ethier logs 550 plate appearances. His contract also includes a $2.5 million buyout.
Ethier could have possibly entered the trade market, unsure which team would give him an opportunity to win over a starting position. After missing the 2016 season due to that freak injury at Spring Training, his outlook seems to have changed towards a team-first mentality.
In 11 seasons with the Dodgers, Ethier has hit .285/.359/.463 with 160 home runs, 684 RBIs, 302 doubles and 638 runs scored.
