Chase Utley’s Legacy with the Phillies Continues to Grow

Chase Utley will never leave our hearts, and his legacy continues to grow as former teammates and coaches recount the stories of the second baseman’s past

In an interview with Philly Mag, the Phillies new television color analyst John Kruk recounted his favorite prank from his playing days. Coincidentally, it was on then-rookie Chase Utley when they told him his first career hit, a grand slam, did not count.

The best prank I ever pulled … was on Chase Utley. His first hit in the big leagues was a grand slam for the Phillies. It was his first day. We set this thing up where we called him into Larry Bowa’s office and said, “Your papers weren’t submitted in time. You were an illegal player. It doesn’t count.” He screamed, “f*** all of you!” and walked out.

Imagine the 24-year-old Utley gleaming after hitting a grand slam screaming and cursing out manager Larry Bowa.

The grand slam was the first of seven for Utley in his 14-year career between Philadelphia and Los Angeles.

He’ll get another chance to tack on to his 250 career home runs as he enters his second full season with the Dodgers. He’ll split playing time with Logan Forsythe, who the Dodgers acquired during the winter from the Rays prior to re-signing the 38-year-old Utley.

Next: Andrew Knapp Appears to Have Earned the Backup Catcher Job

We miss you, Chase.