Chase Utley's Historic Number: Phillies Legend Becomes Wall of Famer
Chase Utley, the beloved second baseman, has become the third member of the 2008 World Series championship team to earn induction into the Phillies Wall of Fame.
A six-time All-Star and key figure in the Phillies' success during the late 2000s, Utley's induction was celebrated on Friday night with a star-studded ceremony at Citizens Bank Park. Hall of Famers Mike Schmidt and Steve Carlton were in attendance, as were former teammates Jimmy Rollins and Ryan Howard.
Utley's plaque now hangs in the left field plaza at Citizens Bank Park, alongside other notable Phillies legends. His number, 26, has not been worn by any Phillie since he was traded to the Los Angeles Dodgers in 2015.
Utley played 13 seasons in Philadelphia before his trade, finishing with a .275 average, .823 OPS, and 1,885 hits. The sweet-swinging Utley was beloved for his hustle, heart, and all-out attitude, earning him a special place in the hearts of Phillies fans.
Fans fell in love with Utley from the moment he ran around the bases after hitting a grand slam for his first hit in the majors. His affection for Utley grew legendary after he scored from second base on an infield grounder, with Hall of Fame broadcaster Harry Kalas declaring: "Chase Utley, you are the man."
Pat Burrell, a fellow Wall of Fame outfielder, joked that Utley "ran angry" out on the field. The ceremony also featured actor Rob Mac, whose character from "It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia" simply wanted to have a catch with Utley.
The induction is not the only recognition Utley is receiving. He is also on track for Hall of Fame induction, having received 59.1% of the vote in his third year on the ballot. Players are required to receive 75% of the votes for induction.
Utley appears to be on the right path, but he is not yet a lock for the Hall of Fame. "You can't not pay attention to it once you're in the conversation," Utley said. "Obviously, I'm honored that I'm part of that conversation."
The ceremony also featured a nod to Utley's legacy, as the Phillies ditched their usual Friday night City Connect uniforms for their traditional home pinstripes. Bryce Harper suggested the change, which was a fitting tribute to Utley's time with the team.
As Utley looks back on his time in Philadelphia, he is grateful for the experience. "I've had plenty of time now since I've stopped playing to reflect on how this was such an amazing time, not only for me but my family and the team, the coaches, everyone within this organization," Utley said. "It was an incredible time to be a Philadelphia Phillie."
Utley's Wall of Fame induction is a testament to his enduring legacy with the Phillies. As he looks to the future, it remains to be seen whether his number will be retired and join the likes of Roy Halladay's No. 34 and Richie Ashburn's No. 1 on the outfield concourse wall.
Source: Yahoo Sports