SF, PHI in "advanced talks" about Chase Utley

[GS Warriors 1]

The Phillies and Giants are discussing a trade that would send Chase Utley to San Francisco, FOX Sports’ Jon Morosi reports (on Twitter). The two teams are discussing specific names of prospects, which is an indication that the talks are at least fairly advanced.

Utley cleared waivers yesterday, and can now be freely traded to any club he wishes, provided he okays the move by waiving his no-trade protection. It has been suggested that Utley could be particularly open to coming to San Francisco given that his family’s offseason home is in the Bay Area, not to mention the more obvious fact that he’d be joining the defending World Series champions in a pennant race.

The Giants’ interest in Utley surfaced when Joe Panik hit the DL with an ongoing back problem. Utley could fill in at second and then, once Panik returns, shift into either a bench role or a part-time role at first base (though since both Utley and Brandon Belt are left-handed hitters, it wouldn’t be a perfect fit).

While a very small sample size, Utley has hit .412/.389/.588 over 18 plate appearances since his return from the disabled list. Despite the very poor numbers Utley posted over the season’s first few months, the longtime Phillie’s apparent health and his career track record has generated trade interest from the Giants, Yankees, Cubs and Angels.

[Mamba Mentality]

Typical Brian Sabean move, buying low on an aging veteran and hoping to catch lightening in a bottle. Makes me wonder if Paniks injury is more serious than indicated...

[DreDinis21]

I'd rather role with Clark Kent, errr, Kelby Tomlinson. Let the kids play....that's what got us where we are right now.

[Mamba Mentality]

Looks like the Dodgers took the bait. I wish him nothing but the worst.