MINNEAPOLIS -- Chase Utley would prefer to remain with the Philadelphia Phillies, the team that drafted him 14 years ago.
With the Phillies last in the NL East at 42-53, it's possible the team might try to deal veterans for prospects before the July 31 deadline for trades without waivers. A six-time All-Star, Utley is owed $15 million next season as part of a deal that contains options for $15 million in each of three additional years that could become guaranteed if he has 500 plate appearances in the previous season and doesn't finish the season hurt.
"The grass isn't always greener on the other side," he said Monday. "I've picked some brains over the course of the last few years. I really enjoy Philadelphia. I love playing baseball in Citizens Bank Park. I love playing in front of Philly fans. There's no better place to play in my opinion. Obviously winning is important and you want to do that, and I would like to do that in Philadelphia."
While he wants to stay, he understands the Phillies may decide to clear out veterans.
"If someone at some point comes up to me and says you're not wanted in Philadelphia anymore, I might have to rethink that," he said. "I think if I was a betting man I would say probably there will be no change."