The Los Angeles Dodgers submitted their 2017 Opening Day roster ahead of Monday’s matchup with the San Diego Padres, and begin the year with six players on the disabled list. Among them is Andre Ethier, who is sidelined by a herniated disc in his back.
Ethier’s DL stint is retroactive to March 30 and he’s eligible to return Monday, April 10. This marks a second consecutive season the veteran outfielder has started on the DL. Ethier sustained a fractured right tibia in late March of last year, and the injury kept him out until September.
He’s hopeful — and projected — for a more timely return this season. Though, Ethier was shut down after being diagnosed with the herniated disc, and is expected to be evaluated in the coming days. At that point a more specific timeline may be known.
Clayton Kershaw missed 10 weeks last season while recovering from a similar injury. Ethier was removed from a Cactus League game on March 6 due to back soreness.
The hip/lower-back issue prevented him from participating in workouts, and the injury led to him being scratched from the lineup March 19. Ethier was sent for an MRI, which revealed a mild herniated disc. The discomfort didn’t subside, and x-rays and a CT scan soon followed.
Ethier went 6-for-12 with one double, one home run, six walks and two RBI in eight Cactus League games. Prior to the additional testing on his back, Dodgers president of baseball operations Andrew Friedman said the team was ‘not concerned long-term’ over Ethier’s injury.
Without Ethier, the Dodgers figure to platoon Franklin Gutierrez and Andrew Toles in left field. Toles emerged as a regular starter last season, supplanting Howie Kendrick.
