The Los Angeles Dodgers began the unofficial second half of the 2016 season on a high note by defeating the Arizona Diamondbacks in the opener of a three-game series. Their victory was accompanied by a San Francisco Giants loss, which trimmed the Dodgers’ deficit in the National League West to 5.5 games.
Both the Giants and Dodgers have endured multiple injuries to key contributors, which is further testament to the clubs owning the first- and fourth-best record in the Majors, respectively. Among those Los Angeles has been without this season is Andre Ethier.
The veteran outfielder sustained a fractured right tibia during Spring Training and his recovery has been slower than expected.
After weeks of cardiovascular activity and some light swinging, Ethier underwent another bone scan on Friday and according to Ken Gurnick of MLB.com, it revealed his fracture has not yet fully healed:
Ethier fracture not completely healed, but he can be ramped up. No timetable to return.
— Ken Gurnick (@kengurnick) July 16, 2016
When diagnosed with the fracture on March 22, it was projected Ethier would miss 10 to 14 weeks. Dodgers manager Dave Roberts recently targeted Aug. 2 as a potential return date for his outfielder.
At the time that seemed aggressive when considering Ethier had yet to be cleared for full baseball activities. He’s expected to increase his level of activity, though Roberts doesn’t expect Ethier to play without pain this season.
His continued absence may result in Los Angeles revisiting their interest in Cincinnati Reds outfielder Jay Bruce. Ethier last season hit .294/.366/.486 with 20 doubles, 14 home runs, 53 RBIs, a .366 wOBA and 137 wRC+ in 142 games.
He became a 10-and-5 player on April 21, thus earning a no-trade clause. In order to earn the right to veto a trade, a player must reach 10 years of Major League service time, including the last five with the same club.
Ethier is under contract through 2017, with his deal including a $17.5 million club option and $2.5 million buyout for 2018.
