Dodgers (and Their Fans) Hold Their Collective Breath Over Extent of Ethier Injury

As has been widely reported, left fielder Andre Ethier broke the first knuckle in the pinkie finger on his right hand while taking batting practice before Saturday night’s game against the San Diego Padres.  Tony Jackson has a report detailing how the injury happened and how the Dodgers subsequently (and correctly) reacted, and another with the Dodgers possible roster moves.

Per Jackson, on Sunday, Ethier traveled back to LA to meet with the Dodgers’ physician Dr. Neal ElAttrache and hand specialist Dr. Steve Shinn. The Dodgers have not released any additional information about Ethier’s condition, but a trip to the 15-day DL might be the likely next step, with Xavier Paul likely taking Ethier’s spot on the roster.  In the meantime, Ethier is wearing a splint on the pinkie.

Of course, this is especially big news for the Dodgers, as Ethier is far and away the team’s most consistent (and clutch hitter) this season, batting .392 with 11 homers and 38 RBIs, leading the National League in all three categories.  Oh, and if you want a quick guide to how Ethier continues to progress in the chase for the Triple Crown, be sure and visit Eric Stephen’s chart on the left sidebar at True Blue LA.

We’re on the story and will report back as soon as any new information is available.

Photo Credit: Jon SooHoo/LA Dodgers 2010