Dodgers’ Andre Ethier still hopes to play center field in NLDS

Andre Ethier worked out in center field Sunday and said he hopes to return to the position during the National League division series.

Ethier has not played the field since Sept. 13 because of discomfort above his left ankle, a condition similar to shin splints. Dodgers Manager Don Mattingly said it would be a “great surprise” if Ethier played the field before the NL championship series, if the Dodgers advance.

“Hopefully sooner than that,” Ethier said. “That’s what we’re hoping for. You never know.”

Ethier has appeared as a pinch-hitter in each of the first two games of the NLDS against the Atlanta Braves. Skip Schumaker has started in center field.