Jun 4, 2016; Los Angeles, CA, USA; Los Angeles Dodgers second baseman Chase Utley (26) dives to stop a hard grounder off the bat of Atlanta Braves third baseman Chase d'Arnaud (not pictured) in the sixth inning at Dodger Stadium. d'Arnaud beat the throw by Utley to first for an infield single. Mandatory Credit: Robert Hanashiro-USA TODAY Sports

Dodgers News: Chase Utley Given Heart and Hustle Award

Alex Perez07/19/2016

0 1 minute read

When the Dodgers resigned Chase Utley at the end of the 2015 season, many fans were a bit distraught to say the least. Many were concerned that the 37 year old was approaching the low point of his career; however, he has been one of the most consistent parts of the Dodgers’ lineup.

This season Utley is hitting .260 with a .343 OBP and 15 doubles! The only reason his average is a bit on the low side is because of a small slump in June where he hit .209. Utley is out of that slump, however, hitting .270 in the month of July so far.

[graphiq id=”6j8Rq2XFpDD” title=”Chase Utley 2016 Batting Splits by Month” width=”640″ height=”494″ url=”https://w.graphiq.com/w/6j8Rq2XFpDD” link=”http://baseball-players.pointafter.com/l/16721/Chase-Utley” link_text=”Chase Utley 2016 Batting Splits by Month | PointAfter” ]

Thankfully, the Major League Baseball Players Alumni Association took noticed and decided to honor Chase Utley. On Tuesday, Utley was named the 2016 Dodger recipient of the Heart and Hustle award!

This award honors active players who show a passion for baseball & best embody the values, spirit & tradition of the game. #HeartandHustle

— MLBPAA (@MLBPAA) July 19, 2016

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The #HeartandHustle Award is the only award in @MLB voted upon by former players. Voting is conducted prior to the All-Star break.

— MLBPAA (@MLBPAA) July 19, 2016

Congratulations, Chase!

The @MLBPAA announced Chase Utley as the #Dodgers 2016 #HeartandHustle Award winner. pic.twitter.com/ubCRZPfqvU

— Los Angeles Dodgers (@Dodgers) July 19, 2016

Many believe Chase Utley’s style of play is very rough, pointing back to the playoffs last year and his collision at 2nd base. However, his work ethic is unparalleled, especially for somebody at his age! Congratulations, Chase! Hopefully you can take your heart and hustle and lead the team to the postseason!

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