Chase Utley On WFC: 'I Meant It All The Way'
PHILADELPHIA (CBS) -- Chase Utley is one of the most beloved athletes in Philadelphia sports history. After 13 and a half incredible seasons, six all-star games, a World Series championship, and a famous expletive, Utley was traded to the Los Angeles Dodgers.
Listen: Chase Utley on the 94WIP Mike & Ike Show
On Wednesday afternoon, Utley joined Michael Barkann and Ike Reese on the 94WIP Mike & Ike Show to say goodbye.
Q: What's it like playing for the Dodgers?
"Obviously it's a little awkward at first, wearing blue instead of red."
What was it like leading up to weeks and days before being traded?
"It's definitely wasn't the easiest time I've ever had. You know, I went back and forth for a number of days over what's the best thing to do for myself and for the organization. And I think we all know, ultimately, it came down to kind of trying to help the Phillies improve and also giving myself the opportunity to play in the postseason again."
How long do you want to play?
"I'd like to play as long as my body holds up. Obviously, I'd like to play past this season. This season hasn't gone so well, as far as keeping my body in one piece. The offseason will be a good test of getting everything in the right shape, but I definitely want to play beyond this year and who knows---play as long as I can."
Has your introverted personality helped you become a fan favorite in Philadelphia
"Ever since after my first at-bat when I struck out, when they booed me back to the dugout---ever since then they've been amazing to me. Listen, I mean, I feel like I play the game the right way. I play hard all the time. I think the fans appreciate that. They appreciate the effort. As far as being a vocal guy, you pick your spots. Obviously, when you say something you want it to be heard, but I feel like if you're always saying something, guys might not listen much."
What are your favorite memories as a Phillie?
"First at-bat in the big leagues at the Vet is something I'll never forget. First hit, is something I'll never forget. You mentioned the World Series, you know, playing behind Doc and his two no-hitters are something you can't forget. Winning our division in 2007, coming back chasing down the Mets and ultimately winning on the last day. Those are a few of the many memories I'll have."
We didn't realize how much Philadelphia meant to you.
"Listen, the fans I think bring the most out of players. I think sometimes, they can crush some guys, guys that aren't mentally tough, but for the most part guys that want to win, want to be out there, the fans are right there in your back pocket hoping you continue to succeed."
Talk about your famous 'World (expletive) Champions!' line. Did you plan on saying that?
"No, I had no idea what I was gonna say. I wasn't even sure that we were actually talking. Obviously it was a whirlwind of a few weeks, but that day was pretty special going down Broad Street, seeing how much support was out there and how happy the fans were. It was an emotional day. Obviously I said what I said, I meant it all the way. Maybe I should not have said it, but it came out. As far as the letter is concerned, I had a few people in my corner trying to point me in the right direction on how to address the fans and how to really get my true feelings across to them."
Don't feel bad for saying it.
"I didn't say I felt bad, just maybe I should not have said that."
"We try to raise some money to benefit animals, mainly for abuse and neglect and we'll continue to do so."
