Dodgers’ Andrew Friedman on Andre Ethier’s desire to start: ‘I get it’

Andrew Friedman, the Dodgers president of operations, said he understands why Andre Ethier would want to be traded if he isn’t starting.

“I get it,” Friedman said. “I think all guys that play this game want to play as much as they possibility can. I get it. I totally get it from his perspective.”

Friedman said he didn’t mind how Ethier voiced his feelings last week.

“People praised the way he handled the situation last year, and we felt like it was important for him to say how he felt right now,” Friedman said. “We welcome that.”

Friedman said Ethier’s remarks didn’t make him any more inclined to move the two-time All-Star.

“No,” Friedman said. “I get where he’s coming from. I’d feel the same way if I were him.”

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The Dodgers won’t attempt to sign Zack Greinke to a contract extension this winter, Friedman said.

Greinke can void the remainder of his contract at the end of the upcoming season and become a free agent. If Greinke elects for free agency next winter, he would walk away from a guaranteed $71 million over three seasons.

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Friedman said he would like to add a starting pitcher, either by trade or free agency.

Friedman was otherwise vague about his plans.

He wouldn’t describe the team’s level of interest in free agent Jon Lester, who is nearing a decision of where to sign.