The Phillies have just given Chase Utley a well deserved raise. His deal is reportedly worth $85 million over 7 years. In a few years, this will be a bargain. Chase is one of, if not the best 2nd baseman in the league.
The trade-off for Utley is that he sacrifices some earning potential for
the security against injuries or a decline in production. Had he maintained his
production level over the next three years, he likely would've earned more than
this deal's annual value, but it also could have gone the other way. He'll be 35
at the end of this contract. (from Phillies.com)
I couldn't have said it better myself. Signing guys to long term contracts is good for situations like this and a situation like Donovan McNabb, where if they continue their pace are a bargain. It backfires on guys like Pat Burrell.
I can't think of a player who personifies the philly spirit more than Chase. The Phillies need more guys like Utley and Aaron Rowand. Guys that are going to get dirty and get the fans behind them. A new era of Phillies baseball is upon us... the Pat Gillick era.
I for one and glad to have Utley in a Phils uniform for years to come. Kudos to Gillick for getting the job done. Congratulations to Utley!
PS -- 24 days until pitchers and catchers report.
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