Can Utley Still Play At A High Level?

Chase Utley is such an amazing ball player because with the flick of his wrists, he can put one in the seats.  At times, he makes hitting look easy and can change a game with that quick compact swing.  But after a mysterious knee injury that sidelined him for the better part of the 2011 season, Utley clearly is not the same player.

This is most clearly supported in Utley's decline in power numbers.  After hitting 20 or more homers from 2005-2009, Utley hit just 16 homers in 2010, and only 11 last year.  What's worse is the fact that after driving in around 100 runs in that same time frame, Utley drove in just 65 runs in 2010, and a mere 44 last year.  Now a lot of those numbers are down due to injuries.  Utley played in 130 or more games from 05-09 versus playing in 115 in 2010 and 103 last year.  But even with a smaller sample of games, Utley's power numbers are still undoubtedly decreasing.

The main reason for Utley's recent string of injuries is due to the fact that he plays the game at 110%.  He hustles down the first base line, and is constantly willing to take out a second baseman or shortstop to break up a double play.  As much as the fans of the city of Philadelphia love a guy like Utley, his play is clearly beginning to take its toll.  His knee is a big problem, and getting plunked every other at-bat doesn't help the overall well being of his body either.

So what does this all mean for the 2012 campaign?  Is Chase Utley really done?  In my opinion I believe Utley is going to bounce back and have a monster 2012 season.  There is no way that Chase Utley, who is such a fierce competitor, is going to let himself and his team simply fade into oblivion.  The Utley era is far from over and I think 2012 will be his year.

Having said that I still think Hunter Pence is the more logical choice for three hole hitter.  I think the best place for Utley is in the 2 hole where he can do alot by just making contact.  Utley clearly doesn't have the same power that he used to, but I think he still has the ability to hit for a high average.  Having him hit right behind Rollins at the top of the lineup will open up endless possibilities for the offense.

Chase Utley's remarkable career is far from over.  Hopefully he has been training hard this winter and will be able to contribute significantly once the season rolls around.