I mean seriously, is there a better role model in the game of baseball than Chase Utley. I'm a Cleveland Indians fan, but Utley has stolen my heart away from Grady Sizemore (sorry Grady, you're still my boy).Yesterday, in a series against the Cubs, Utley double clutched before firing to Howard while attempting to turn two in the 10th inning. The ball took a weird hop, eluded Howard and made its way into the dugout, allowing the Cubs runner to score the decisive run. We're all human, nobody's perfect. What impressed me most was post-error, Chase sunk down, putting both hands on his knees and his head down. It's one game, in the middle of April against a non-division opponent. Yet, Chase cares.
As an Indians fan, I've witnessed too many players who didn't care (i.e. Joey Belle and Manny Ramirez). The only thing I ask of a player, is to give your all and CARE. In the post game interview, Chase owned up to his mistake, saying it was completely his fault, he let the team down, etc, etc. All I can say, is what a stand-up guy. No one blames him for the loss. The blown call homerun by Derosa in the 6th had a larger impact than Utley's throw (which, I watched the replay 11 times, I think Howard could have had it).
Chase signed a huge contract before the '07 season and has not let down the city of Philadelphia. His nickname is 'Dirtball' because of his Charlie Hustle style of play. He and his wife are active members in the community and volunteer at animal shelters throughout Philadelphia. Billy Joel may be right in "Only the Good Die Young" but if the good guys win a World Series this year, "Dirtball" will have a large say in it.
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