If Chase Utley in a Los Angeles Dodgers uniform looked odd to you in 2015, at least you will not have to get used to him in yet another in 2016. After reportedly drawing interest from the San Diego Padres and the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim, it appears Utley will re-sign with the Los Angeles Dodgers.
Jon Heyman of CBS Sports reported the terms:
Utley goes to dodgers. Believe to be for 1 year, about 7M guarantee
— Jon Heyman (@JonHeymanCBS) December 6, 2015
Utley made $15 million in 2015.
At this time, Utley's role is somewhat unclear. The Dodgers used Howie Kendrick as their starting second baseman in 2015, but Kendrick is a free agent. The Dodgers used Utley as a utility player last season, first filling in for Kendrick at second base while he was out with a minor injury, and then spending time at first base and third base. Kike Hernandez remains an options for the Dodgers at second base, but Hernandez is capable of playing other positions. The move for the Dodgers at least gives them options in the infield.
In 2015, Utley batted .212 with eight home runs and 38 runs batted in.
