Dodgers News: Andre Ethier Returns to Lineup, Left Field

Andre Ethier is back as a Dodgers regular.

The fan favorite hadn’t played in a game since March 6 until Friday night. He started in left field Saturday. He’s expected to DH on Sunday as well.

Andre Ethier is now 5-11 with 6 walks in 8 games this spring. #Dodgers ?

— David Vassegh (@THEREAL_DV) March 18, 2017

Ethier has looked good in limited time this spring. As always, the question will be the sustainability of his health. There’s a log jam in the Dodgers’ corner outfield spots, but Ethier is a viable candidate to see most of the at-bats in left field (with Joc Pederson and Yasiel Puig controlling the other two spots).

Comeback Player of The Year isn’t an erroneous suggestion. If Ethier stays comfortable at the plate – and maintains a presence on the field, period – he could vault to one of the favorites.

Ethier hasn’t played in more than 149 games since 2009. He is, however, only two seasons removed from hitting .294 with 14 homers and 53 RBI. Ethier only played in 16 games last season.

Our analysts Brandon Knudsen and Brian Robitaille debated Ethier versus Andrew Toles in their latest roundtable. The duo is expected to jockey for outfield at-bats all season.