Utley & Feliz to Have Surgery

Second baseman Chase Utley will have surgery next week to repair his ailing hip. While still productive, Utley had power struggles in the second half of last season, and it was rumored it was a hip injury. Utley dismissed the rumors, and went on to earn his second consecutive Silver Slugger Award. Unfortunately after numerous tests here in Philadelphia and in New York, it was recommended that he go under the knife. After the surgery, Utley will not be able to do any baseball activities for 3-4 months, but the full recovery time is 4-6 months. This means there's a possibility Utley may miss the first month of the 2009 season. Third baseman Pedro Feliz is also scheduled to have surgery tomorrow. Feliz is having surgery on his lower back. Many remember Feliz spending 26 days on the disabled list this summer due to his balky back. Feliz's recovery time is 8-12 weeks, meaning Feliz should be ready for Spring Training. While Feliz is much of a concern, Utley's recovery is something everyone should monitor. Given this recent news, don't rule out the front office now bringing in a second baseman in case Utley suffers a setback.