The Los Angeles Dodgers finalized their two-year contract with Chase Utley, which is said to be worth $2 million. This winter marked a third-straight in which the veteran infielder was re-signed, but his first instance receiving a multi-year deal from the Dodgers.
Much like he did last season, Utley figures to once again fill a role off the bench. He’s expanded to playing some first and third base, but the bulk of his playing time should come at second base.
Utley endured a rough start to the 2017 season before hitting his stride in May. He finished the year batting .236/.324/.405 with 20 doubles, four triples, eight home runs, 34 RBI, a 92 OPS+ and 96 wRC+.
Although he has a reputation for delivering when the lights brighten and pressure intensifies, Utley went hitless in 15 postseason at-bats. His return, however, extends beyond any box score.
Since trading for the longtime Philadelphia Phillies second baseman in August 2015, the Dodgers have raved about Utley’s leadership and presence. He’s been championed as being one of the instrumental figures to Corey Seager’s development and workman-like attitude that’s consumed the clubhouse.
The Dodgers think so highly of the 39-year-old that they were more than happy to allow him to continue working out at Dodger Stadium during the winter despite being a free agent. That was further indication a reunion was simply a matter of when, not if.
There was more evidence Tuesday at Camelback Ranch, as several reports indicated a locker — without a nameplate — housed Utley’s cleats, equipment and packages of mail.
Utley is a career .240/.317/.395 batter, with 55 doubles, eight triples, 25 home runs and a 95 RBI in 299 games with the Dodgers.
