Chase Utley = MVP: Most Valuable Phillie

Yeah, it’s early.

Yeah, he needs to stay healthy.

But if Chase Utley stays on the field, it’s going to take a Matt Holliday-sized effort for someone to take the MVP trophy from him and Philly.

The previous two seasons, Ryan Howard and Jimmy Rollins have won the award with huge years and killer Augusts and Septembers.

Two years ago in September when Howard hit three home runs, (No’s. 50, 51, 52) in one game against Tim Hudson to pretty much lock the award up is a prime example of that.

But with Rollins out for at least two more weeks and Howard off to what is becoming a perennial slow start, it’s been up to Utley (with a hand from Pat Burrell) to carry the team.

And that’s pretty much what he’s done, hitting .354 with nine homers and 19 RBI.

In fact, he’s either tied for the lead, leading or in the top-10 of most major offensive National League categories.

True, his defense has been a little spotty to start the year, specifically his throwing, but his defense is usually there when the team needs him, like last night in Colorado.

Bases loaded, with one out and already trailing 3-0 in the third when Utley saved at least two runs and probably the game with some spectacular glove work.

Rockies second baseman Clint Barmes hit a shot up the middle, which kicked off the mound and was headed for center field when Utley dove to his right, snared the ball and shoveled it from his glove to shortstop Eric Bruntlett, who completed the impressive double play.

Struggling starting pitcher Kyle Kendrick didn’t deserve the good fortune but looked very thankful anyway on the way back to dugout. But he’s another story.

By the way, Utley went on to go 2-for-5, with his 18th RBI and ninth home run of the season and the fifth straight game he’s homered in.

He also came within a can of Coors Light of hitting No. 10 when he blasted another ball just barely foul later in the game.

Whether you’re a Phillies fan or not, you have to appreciate his no-nonsense, do-anything-to-win approach.

He is clearly the best second baseman in the league and plays the game the way many no-heart, showoff players never could. He’s a throwback player with the modern day skills to get it done. And you should be rooting for him.

Unless, of course, you’re a Mets fan.