Philadelphia Phillies: Have We Already Seen the Best of Chase Utley's Career?

After thumb surgery in July of 2010, Chase Utley was limited to only 115 games last season.

This is a bit of a concern because, prior to becoming a significant part of the Phillies in 2005, Utley had only played in 137 games through his first two seasons.

From 2005 though 2009, Chase averaged 150 games per year, so a 35-game drop in 2010 definitely shouldn't go unnoticed.

Heading into 2011, Utley has yet to play in a spring training game after receiving a cortisone shot in his right knee.

The reason for the shot was the abnormal longevity of pain that Chase has felt in his knee.

In an article by the ESPN.com news services, Utley said:

"I've had it maybe in terms of pain here and there. But this is lingering longer than it has in the past. So with that said, there is a little bit of level of concern. But I think we're doing the right things to try to get it better."

So, baseball fans, has the City of Brotherly Love seen the best of Chase Utley?

Well, we need not worry about the glove, because the Phils' starting pitching staff (Halladay, Lee, Hamels, Oswalt and Blanton) makes his job that much easier.

However, Utley's bat may be of concern since his average has been gradually on the decline since 2008.

He has also seen a decrease in home runs, doubles, hits and RBI since 2008 as well.

With all this being said, it is expected that his numbers will also decrease in 2011, especially if his knee doesn't get better.

But, even in that event, his intangibles are second to none, which plays a pivotal role in the dugout.

At age 32, Chase Utley may be on the back nine of his career. However, comebacks can happen, and don't be surprised if 2011 acts as a lead into a healthy/sensational 2012.

Therefore, how will Chase Utley fare in 2011 Philly fans? Play ball! (Or, I mean, debate.)