Dodgers' Ethier could play this week after X-rays on elbow return negative

With the prospect of more playing time being available following the departure of Matt Kemp, this is not the type of day Los Angeles Dodgers outfielder Andre Ethier was hoping to have. 

The two-time All-Star exited Tuesday's game in the second inning after taking a pitch off of his right elbow. 

Ethier appeared to be in an overwhelming amount of pain and was immediately seen by a trainer, though X-rays returned negative and he could be able to play as early as Thursday. 

(Courtesy: MLB.com)

The Dodgers are expected to give rookie outfielder Joc Pederson an everyday role this season, with Ethier competing for time coming off the bench. 

Ethier, who is owed $53.5 million over the next three seasons, struggled through 130 games in 2014, hitting .249/.322/.370 with four home runs and 74 strikeouts.