Utley has played for the Phillies his entire career.
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That restriction could complicate matters, but CSN Philadelphia believes it unlikely Utley would block a trade to San Francisco.
The San Francisco Giants have had some rotten luck when it comes to finding a consistently healthy option at second base, with the likes of Freddy Sanchez, Marco Scutaro and now Joe Panik all suffering back injuries and various other ailments that have placed them on the shelf for extended periods of time over the past five years. In his return, Utley has hit safely in each of his first four games, going 5 for 13 (.385) with three doubles and three RBIs.
Chase Utley, 2B, Phillies – Utley is off the DL and now subject to a possible waiver deal.
The Phillies have not been a World Series-contending team since their rotation consisted of Roy Halladay, Cliff Lee, Cole Hamels, and Roy Oswalt.
Those first poor couple of months came on the heels of an impressive spring training in which Utley batted.
The Phillies are likely open to trading him to save some money and put the veteran in a better position to win this season and possibly beyond.
Despite his struggles this season, Utley’s resume speaks for itself. When asked about trade rumors and offers, Utley said, “I would be more than happy to listen to them”. Also, despite being the hottest team since the All-Star break with a 15-3 record, they sit in last place in the National League East.
As the trade deadline neared, ESPN 1500’s Darren Wolfson tweeted about rumored talks between Minnesota and San Diego that involved Ricky Nolasco heading to the Padres while the Twins would “take back good money”, which led many to assume James Shields was part of those discussions.
The New York Yankees, Los Angeles Angels and Chicago Cubs all have had interest, even before Utley was activated from the disabled list. Utley has a full no-trade clause, and would have to approve a trade to any proposed team.
Utley, 36, has played well since his return from a six-week absence.
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Now, Utley is past his prime, and Father Time has not been so kind to the 36-year-old. If that is changing, one of the many obstacles to dealing him is moved out of the way.
