The San Francisco Giants are reportedly pursuing a move to acquire Philadelphia Phillies second baseman Chase Utley, who cleared waivers Tuesday, making him trade-eligible.
Utley has been a member of the Phillies for all 13 seasons of his big league career, so he has the right to refuse any trade proposition as a 10-and-5 player -- at least 10 years in the majors and at least five years with his current team.
Giants general manager Bobby Evans confirmed his team's interest in Utley to MLB.com on Thursday night, but couched his hopes of finalizing a trade, saying in a text message that he's "not sure how it will all work out." Giants second baseman Joe Panik is on the disabled list with inflammation in his back, so Utley would be a viable replacement in the lineup while Panik works his way back to health.
Utley hasn't played since Tuesday. Phillies manager Pete Mackanin rested Utley for Wednesday's day game, and the team had an off day Thursday. Mackanin acknowledged Tuesday night that there would likely be discussions about potential landing spots for Utley.
The six-time All-Star was activated from the 15-day DL on Aug. 7 after being out more than a month with right ankle inflammation. He is hitting .196 in 70 games this season.
Other teams believed to have interest in Utley's services include the Chicago Cubs, Los Angeles Dodgers, Los Angeles Angels and New York Yankees.
Information from The Associated Press was used in this report.