Dodgers Undecided on Ethier’s Playoff Role

LOS ANGELES (AP) – Andre Ethier may be limited to pinch-hitting duties in the National League division series because of a left ankle injury, leaving the Los Angeles Dodgers still undecided on whether to include the outfielder on the playoff roster.

Ethier threw and hit but didn’t run during Tuesday’s workout at Dodger Stadium before the team departed for Atlanta, where they will face the Braves in Game 1 on Thursday.

He hasn’t played in the field since Sept. 13 because of an issue similar to shin splints. Ethier says he feels great when he wakes up but as he begins moving around he experiences pain a few inches above his ankle bone.

The Dodgers are already down one outfielder for the postseason. Matt Kemp is out with complications from a sprained left ankle.