Utley Should Get a Pass

Chase Utley's throwing error in the 8th inning of game 2, probably lost the game for the Phillies. Leading 1-0, the Phils could have erased a 2 run inning by the Dodgers, if Utley had simply turned a routine double play. Instead, his errant throw (2nd in 2 games) sailed into the Phillies dugout allowing the Dodgers to tie the game.

Based on Utley's past performance, his approach to the game and the fan's respect for him, he'll get a pass for this one. Any other player would be villified in the Philadelphia press and probably be in the cross hairs of every die-hard Phillies fan........but not Utley.

Chase Utley is what the baseball veterans call a "gamer". He could have played baseball in any era. His consistent intensity is what endears him the to the Phillies fans. I'm sure he is feeling terrible about his miscue and will probably be looking for an opportunity to redeem himself.

I think we'll see the classic case of Goat to Hero in one of the next two games. Utley is too good a player not to make that happen.


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