When Chase Utley was traded to the Los Angeles Dodgers last August it marked the first time in his long career he wore a uniform other than that of the Philadelphia Phillies. The trade also reunited Utley with Jimmy Rollins.
However, unlike Rollins, who faced the Phillies in Los Angeles and Philadelphia last season, Utley’s first look at his former team didn’t come until Monday. “I learned a lot from the coaching staff and other players who came through the organization,” he said prior to the series opener.
“Those are things that I think about.” The 14-year veteran isn’t one to overreact or show much of an expression in many situations.
Utley’s reflection on his time with the Phillies is about the furthest extent of how in depth he’ll be during an interview. True to form, he largely downplayed playing against the only organization he’d known.
“It was cool. But you’re still trying to go out there and compete and win,” Utley said. “It was definitely different. I wasn’t really sure what to expect.”
The Dodgers cruised to a victory over the Phillies during which Utley hit a solo home run. But again, there was little emotion exuded. “Anytime you hit a home run it makes it fun,” Utley said. “You try to treat it like another series.”
Utley and the Dodgers will get another look at the Phillies on Aug. 16 when they begin a three-game series at Citizens Bank Park. Rollins received a standing ovation and a tribute video in his return to Philadelphia, and Utley presumably will get the same treatment.
