Andre Ethier, a left-handed outfielder, spent his entire Major League Baseball career with the Los Angeles Dodgers. Born on April 10, 1982, in Phoenix, Arizona, Ethier's journey to the majors began at Arizona State University, where he played college baseball for the Sun Devils. His talent caught the attention of scouts, and he was drafted by the Oakland Athletics in the second round of the 2003 MLB Draft. However, Ethier never played a major league game for the Athletics, as he was traded to the Dodgers in December 2005.
Ethier made his MLB debut with the Dodgers on May 2, 2006, quickly establishing himself as a reliable player. In his rookie season, he posted a .308 batting average, hitting 11 home runs and driving in 55 runs over 126 games. His performance earned him a spot on the Topps All-Star Rookie Team, signaling the beginning of a promising career.
Throughout his time with the Dodgers, Ethier was known for his consistent hitting and strong defensive skills. He was a two-time All-Star, earning selections in 2010 and 2011. In 2009, Ethier had a breakout season, hitting 31 home runs and driving in 106 runs, which earned him a Silver Slugger Award. That year, he also led the league with six walk-off hits, showcasing his ability to perform under pressure.
Ethier's defensive prowess was recognized in 2011 when he won a Gold Glove Award for his performance in right field. His strong arm and ability to cover ground made him a valuable asset to the Dodgers' outfield. Over the years, Ethier became a fan favorite at Dodger Stadium, known for his clutch performances and leadership on and off the field.
Injuries began to take a toll on Ethier's career in the later years. He missed significant time during the 2016 and 2017 seasons due to a fractured tibia and other ailments. Despite these setbacks, Ethier remained a respected figure in the clubhouse and contributed to the Dodgers' postseason runs.
Ethier's career with the Dodgers concluded after the 2017 season. He retired with a .285 career batting average, 162 home runs, and 687 RBIs over 1,455 games. Ethier's tenure with the Dodgers was marked by his loyalty to the team, as he became one of the few players in the modern era to spend his entire career with a single franchise.
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