Chase Utley isn’t ready to jump back into the grind of managing, even if the Phillies checked on whether that door might be open.
Philadelphia reportedly reached out to gauge Utley’s interest in their managerial opening, but he passed. The 2008 World Series champion and longtime franchise staple didn’t want to dive into the speculation, though he did explain where he stands on taking on a coaching role in the future.
“I don't see real upside in acknowledging these different types of rumors,” Utley told former teammate Erik Kratz on the “Foul Territory” podcast. “I can say over the past several years I've had a number of inquiries on my interest on getting back on the field.
My answer has been honestly the same throughout. I'm enjoying watching my two young boys grow up.
As you know, this time goes quickly, and I want to be around for them.
“I'm also in the process of starting a business that is interesting, it's eye-opening. So, I have my hands full currently. At some point down the line, maybe that changes, but currently I'm happy where we're at.”
For now, Utley’s baseball life is built around a much more flexible setup. He’s a special assistant to Dodgers president of baseball operations Andrew Friedman, a role that lets the California native stay connected to the game without the nonstop demands that come with running a big-league club.
"I have my hands full right now. Maybe that changes at some point down the line, but currently, I'm happy where I'm at."
— Foul Territory (@FoulTerritoryTV) October 23, 2026
Chase Utley doesn't see any "real upside" in acknowledging rumors of becoming a big league manager. pic.twitter.com/qh5Qqfa0yw
The Phillies did not stop with Utley. They reportedly checked multiple times on Alex Cora’s interest and also spoke with Raul Ibanez before eventually reconnecting with Don Mattingly, who served as interim skipper this year.
Utley would have been a natural fit for fans hoping to see a familiar face in the dugout. But at least for now, he’s not ready to fully commit himself to the game again.
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