Chase Utley began Spring Training in the same fashion as Cole Hamels, Roy Halladay, and Ryan Howard; with a press conference set up to appease the media and shed some light on offseason questions. Utley, coy as ever, did his best to deflect attention and answer questions as straightforward as possible.
In the few words he spoke, Utley gave reason for optimism. “It feels significantly better. Last year, it was pretty uncomfortable, especially the first week. Right now, I think I’m in a good place.”
Utley did say there is a chance the symptoms come back, but they will work on keeping that from happening. This offseason, Utley strengthened his body all around his knee and made sure that the wear and tear of a full season wouldn’t be a hindrance. He took on more of a stretching routine and laid off the heavy weights this offseason, so as not to irritate the knee.
The Phillies all-star second baseman mentioned that he probably won’t take part in many games during spring training, especially initially. But don’t worry, folks, he says he’s getting closer to 100 percent.
