Chase Utley takes part in pre-game practice with Philadelphia Phillies - MLB Update
Much to the cheers for the Philadelphia Phillies, second baseman Chase Utley resumes practice with the team. He fielded ground balls and spent some time on the plate to check his composure and to see if his knee stings any less than it has been during Spring
Training.
Initial reports suggest that he felt great on the plate however he has pain in the left knee striking a bit as he made few plays on the ground. No official timeline is there yet. His season prospects will be clear within few days as he takes to the park
more often.
The fact he looked better than last year, the season his performance declined due to aftershocks of injuries, gives one a reason that he may be in the line-up soon. With his return, the present replacement Freddy Galvis will see his task eased up.
Phillies are having a terrible season so far, their offence has turned out to be the weakest in the Division. Their rotation which is considered among the best has been handicapped by a miserable show by the hitters.
Experts believe that the absence of Chase Utley and their injured hitter Ryan Howard is the reason they are failing so hopelessly.
When Utley inquired about his injury, he appeared extremely optimistic and looked all set to make a comeback. Doing light exercises, he said gradually he will make the practice more rigorous as the days go on.
“I’ve definitely gained strength the last three weeks. I’m able to run, take some ground balls, fairly light, but I think there will be a progression to make them tougher. And as far as hitting, it was uncomfortable during spring training and now it’s comfortable,”
Utley said.
Resumption of the play by him is a huge sigh of relief for the manager Charlie Manuel, who has struggled to achieve a right combination in the line-up so far.
Phillies desperately need someone who can shine and guide the whole team to new heights. It will be interesting to see if Utley has what it takes to fit in this kind of a role.
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