Thursday, March 17, 2011
Posted: 1:24 p.m.By Jim SalisburyCSNPhilly.com
CLEARWATERChase Utley is not in Phillies camp Thursday.
According to general manager Ruben Amaro Jr., Utley is visiting with a rehabilitation specialist. Amaro declined to say who the specialist was or where the specialist was located. Utley was accompanied by Scott Sheridan, the teams head athletic trainer.
Utley, who has yet to play this spring, is suffering from chronic patellar tendinitis in his right knee. The Phillies are doing everything in their power to avoid corrective surgery, which would sideline Utley for a significant chunk of the season.
Were doing some different things trying to improve where hes at, Amaro said. Were trying to exhaust all ways not to have surgery.
Amaro said Utley had made some small progress, but not enough to run or take ground balls. Chances of Utley making enough progress to be ready for the April 1 season opener are extremely remote.
Im not going to make any predictions on opening day, although it looks doubtful hell make it, Amaro said. But thats not the concern for me. Im more concerned about the long haul.
Amaro could not say how close Utley was to running or taking ground balls.
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When he feels comfortable enough to do it, hell do it, but hes not there yet, Amaro said.
In other injury news:
Third baseman Placido Polancos hyperextended left elbow has improved. He took ground balls Thursday and hopes to hit in the next few days.
Closer Brad Lidge, who has been sidelined by biceps tendinitis, played catch on Thursday.
It felt really good, Lidge said.
The righthander expects to throw a bullpen session on Friday.
E-mail Jim Salisbury at jsalisbury@comcastsportsnet.com
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