Editorials

Dodgers News: MLB Sets Date For Chase Utley’s Appeal Hearing

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It’s been a whirlwind the past few days for Chase Utley and the Los Angeles Dodgers, more than just the normal whirlwind associated with a playoff series.



Utley was suspended two games by Major League Baseball for a takeout slide in Saturday’s Game 2 victory. The slide was late and broke Mets’ shortstop Ruben Tejada’s leg; however, Utley was attempting to break up a double play and denied any malicious intent. Once the suspension was announced, the veteran infielder appealed, making him available until the appeal process is completed. It was thought that the appeal would be heard before Game 3, but that wasn’t enough time for Utley and the MLB Players Association to make his case.

According to Bill Shaikin of the LA Times, the appeal hearing has been set:

That date makes Utley available for the rest of the NLDS and the first two games of the NLCS, should the Dodgers advance that far. It’s believed that the suspension could be overturned or reduced because it lacks a precedent. Also, it was reported that MLB offered Utley a one-game suspension before they eventually handed him a two-game suspension.

Utley did not play in Game 3 after being booed during player introductions. Mets fans chanted “We want Utley” throughout the night, although manager Terry Collins said he instructed starter Matt Harvey to not retaliate.

In order for the hearing to matter this year, the Dodgers need to first win on Tuesday night with their ace on the mound.

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Vincent Samperio

Vince is currently the Associate Editor and Social Media Manager for Dodgers Nation. Hailing from San Pedro, CA and a student at Cal State Long Beach, Vince has previously written for the Daily 49er and LASF Magazine.

2 Comments

  1. what BULLSH!T….if there’s no leg broken…..it’s a hard aggressive slide….old school baseball…..a broken leg and it becomes dirty play and Chase gets suspended…..if baseball doesn’t want this to happen regulate against it…..otherwise shut up and PLAY BALL !!!!!

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