The Los Angeles Dodgers on Saturday made official their one-year contract with Chase Utley, further adding to their embarrassment of riches this offseason. While Utley is revered throughout the organization, his return was hardly a formality.
The Dodgers’ search for an everyday second baseman focused on right-handed hitters, and their trade for Logan Forsythe cast further doubt on Utley potentially re-signing. He handicapped those odds at “50-50” at the time of last month’s trade, citing the “uncertainty” that comes with being a free agent.
“Ultimately, I’m very happy that I landed back here,” the Long Beach. Calif., native added. After joining the Dodgers in August 2015, Utley has twice seen his role fluctuate.
Utley spent the second half of 2015 as a backup second baseman and familiarizing himself with again playing third base. Last season, he was called on to be the Dodgers’ everyday second baseman and primary leadoff hitter.
At 38 years old playing on a daily basis, at least at a productive level, is no longer feasible. “As a player you take a lot of pride in how you play and what you accomplish. I think it’s no secret that I’m not getting any younger,” Utley acknowledged.
“I understand that things change. If I want to be part of a winning organization, I need to take this type of role. I’m up for the challenge and I’m excited about it. I had a few options to go to places [and play a larger role], but being familiar with the Dodgers, growing up a Dodgers fan, it’s cool to have another opportunity to be back.”
“I think the goal for any of us in this clubhouse is to win a championship, and I feel like we have the pieces in place to do that here. Obviously, we still have to continue to improve and want to improve. But I like the guys that are in this locker room.”
Appearing in 138 games last season, his most since 2014, Utley batted .252/.319/.396 with 26 doubles, 14 home runs, 52 RBI and a 95 OPS+. He’s slated to spell Forsythe at second base, potentially Adrian Gonzalez at first base, but is not expected to play third base.
Utley played six games at first base in 2015, making three starts. He otherwise gained the bulk of his limited experience at the position with the Philadelphia Phillies in 2014, playing first base in 13 games (11 starts).
“I have a first baseman’s glove, so there you go,” Utley quipped. “I talked to Dave [Roberts] the other day, and if he calls my name I’ll be ready to go.”
