Chase is On

Chase Utley comments at press conference this morning (Eddie Michels Photo)

CLEARWATER, Fla.—After missing almost half of last season Phillies second baseman Chase Utley took a new approach to 2013.

“I’m feeling really well,” said Utley of coming into camp this spring, “I didn’t quit playing baseball after last season.  I was taking ground balls and BP (batting practice) just about every day.”

With his quirky knees limiting him to just 83 games last season the five-time All Star hit just .256 with 11 homers and 45 RBI.

“The program I used last year just didn’t work,” of why the off season workout change, “I’m feeling pretty good right now.”

Utley, who did his workouts at University of San Francisco, said he felt so well that, “Around Christmas I sent

Taking some good cuts in the cage this morning, Utley looks leaner than ever (Eddie Michels Photo)

Charlie (Manuel) a text message that maybe Santa would bring him a healthy second baseman.”

Entering the final of his contract Utley said, “I’m aware of that and I have approached every year the same way.  I feel I still have a lot to do in this game.”

As to the 2013 edition of the Phillies, “We have a lot of new players with a lot of energy.”

Saturday is the first official day for full squad workouts even though all players and invitees are already in camp.