Quote:
Dodgers' Ethier works out at first base
Left fielder Andre Ethier has been taking ground balls at first base for the past week, he said, "in case we ever need a backup or a backup to the backup."
Manager Joe Torre said working out Ethier at first could increase the flexibility of the Dodgers' lineup by creating opportunities to double switch, or replace starter James Loney if he slumps or needs a day off. On a day when Loney is on the bench, Torre said he would probably start Ethier over Mark Sweeney because he wants to keep the experienced Sweeney available as a pinch-hitting option.
Congestion in the outfield is also a reason for the experiment.
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I don't really know what to make of this. Why not start Mark Sweeney at first base? The bench is ridiculously deep - if Sweeney is at first, Loney, Pierre, and Young, at the very least, will be capable of pinch-hitting. There's nothing wrong with having a bit more flexibility - I just don't find it to be terribly necessary.