Los Angeles Dodgers second baseman Chase Utley’s homecoming to Philadelphia was everything he could have hoped for, and much more, as he went 2-for-4 with two home runs, including a grand slam.
Phillies fans crowd showed Utley the love and respect he deserved after playing 13 years for the franchise, as he received a long standing ovation prior to his first at-bat, then a curtain call after each home run.
Utley showed Tuesday night and throughout the season that he still has some quality play left in him.
The Dodgers signed the 37-year-old to a one-year, $7 million contract during the offseason under the pretense he’d play second and third base, and provide a veteran presence off the bench.
Instead, Utley has become the everyday player at second base and the Dodgers’ leadoff hitter. The resurgent season has the veteran looking forward to extending his playing career, according to Bill Plunkett of the OC Register:
“I do want to keep playing,” said Utley, who signed a one-year, $7 million contract with the Dodgers last winter. “I haven’t thought about it too much because we’re in a playoff race. But my body feels good. I feel I can still contribute to a winning ballclub. As long as those two things hold up, that’s the plan, to keep playing.”
Although he’s slowed since a blistering start to the season, Utley is batting .251/.326/.391 with 10 home runs, 39 RBIs and 58 runs scored. In addition to production on the field, he’s served as a good mentor, primarily for Corey Seager.
