Phillies fans should not be worried about Utley yet

With all the buzz surrounding Phillies 2B Chase Utley leaving spring training to see a specialist for his injured knees, fans need to remember that the Phillies spent the first 47 games of last season without the star player and still managed to win over 100 games. It is not known when Utley will be able to play but newly acquired player Ty Wigginton can play 2B and prospect Freddy Galvis is showing signs that he can one day be the full time replacement for Utley. The team announced that it is doubtful that Utley will be ready for opening day.

Fans also need to remember that the Phillies started last season without RF Hunter Pence, who hit over .300 last season. John Mayberry Jr. will have to step up in his first season as a full-time starter and the pitching staff is going to have to be as sharp as last year.

Ryan Howard will already miss the first half of the season with an Achilles injury. It is hard to look at the bright side as the Phillies get ready to open their season in less than a month. This team is filled with veteran players that have experience and have what it takes to carry this team without two of their best players.