LOS ANGELES _ On Wednesday afternoon, a few hours before the Los Angeles Dodgers distributed Andre Ethier bobbleheads to fans at Dodger Stadium, manager Dave Roberts offered a pessimistic estimation of when Ethier might actually play for the team this season: Sept. 1.
Ethier has appeared in 16 games since 2015 and has been sidelined since spring training by a herniated disk.
He broke his leg in the spring of 2016 and did not debut until Sept. 10 last year. Roberts projected a similar timetable this time, since Ethier has shown little sign of progress in recent months.
A few weeks ago, Roberts was still hopeful that Ethier might be available soon after the All-Star break.
Ethier can become a free agent after this season, with the Dodgers owing him a $2.5 million buyout.
Heading into 2016, the team pegged him as its leadoff hitter and a crucial part of the offense. His importance has waned as his health has been compromised, and other players have filled the void created by his absence.
Chris Taylor, a converted infielder, continues to make strides as the team's regular left fielder.
