phrustrated philly phan

On Saturday, Chase Utley got married then Sunday he signed a deal worth 85 million dollar deal. The deal will last seven years buying out all of his arbitration years plus four years of free agency. The deal will end when Utley turns 33 and probably past his prime. A great deal for both sides. The Phillies sign a cornerstone of their franchise and Utley gets compensated for his tremendous talent. Coming off his first full year, Utley was facing arbitration in a year in which he hit .309 with 32 HRs and 102 RBIs. Utley has quickly become the best second basemen in baseball and will now be compensated that way.

Utley quickly became a fan favorite in Philly with his gritty attitude. He has the famed Utley's Uglies and Chase's Chicks fan groups. Utley has a tremendous work ethic and a love for the game. Last year, Chase prepared early to play in the World Baseball Classic then played straight through to October with minimal rests. He played in 160 games this year.

Some players sign big contracts then quit working but I think Utley will go the other way. I think the big contract will lead Utley to work harder and produce better. Utley has improved his defense every year and I expect even better defense this year. I am predicting that Utley will hit above .310 hit around 30 home runs but will improve his RBI production. I could see him getting around 115-120 RBIs if he hits out of the 3-hole all year.

Both the Phillies and Utley's agent had nothing but good things to say about today's contract. Gillick had this to say: "Chase is a pretty special player." With Utley on his honeymoon his agent, Arn Tellem, spoke for him, "When the Phillies came to us with a multiyear deal of this length and magnitude, it made it very easy for Chase to accept, given that he loves Philadelphia, wanted to stay in Philadelphia and is hoping to retire in Philadelphia."

This is a great day for the Phillies and Utley. It shows the Phillies commitment to winning with the current group of players with Utley being a leader (a big change from when Scott Rolen was up for a new deal). For Utley, it cements his place as one of the best players in baseball. Utley has taken the city by storm and it is great that he will spend his next seven seasons giving 110% for the Phillies. Utley is a great guy to lead this franchise back to the promised land.

Labels: Phillies