Ethier Just Can't Commit

...to being on the NLDS roster, that is. If Ethier gets added to the postseason roster for this first round, he might be limited to pinch hitting, since he can't run the bases or in the field:

Andre Ethier thinks he can help the Dodgers as a pinch-hitter in the National League Division Series, but that might not be enough for the outfielder to make the roster.

Ethier has been hobbled for nearly a month by a left ankle injury similar to shin splints, which has prevented him from playing the field or rounding the bases. At this point, Ethier would only be available to pinch-hit Thursday in Game 1 of the NLDS against the Braves.

"We're hoping it's a hitting role right now and maybe more as the series progresses," Ethier said after working out with the Dodgers on Tuesday at Dodger Stadium. "It's frustrating to be sitting here at this point. We're just trying to figure out a way to have me contribute and help any way I can, especially this first series."

The Dodgers know Ethier can hit and throw -- he did both during Tuesday's workout -- but they're not sure if he can run the bases or play the outfield. Those circumstances present a tough choice for management as they decide what to do with one of their best outfielders.

"We're going to try to determine if we're going to have him on the roster or not as soon as possible, and then we're going to try to wait as long as possible to see if he's going to be able to run," said manager Don Mattingly. "No. 1, can he just be a pinch-hitter? If he can do that, we'll make a determination. Everything that he can do helps us make a decision. We're trying to find out what he can do."

With Matt Kemp out, it sure would be nice to have another option besides Skip Schumaker out there on the outfield grass. (Especially since, as the LAT's Bill Shaikin reports, light-hitting Dee Gordon has been seen trying out the CF role.)

Man, this is going to suck.