That is all Utley - sidelined with patellar tendinitis, chondromalacia, and bone inflammation in his right knee - can do.
Everything about Utley's spring has been nebulous, from the initial diagnosis to his visit to a mystery "rehab specialist." For two weeks, the second baseman has remained silent, refusing to comment on his health. On Monday, while the Phillies conclude Grapefruit League play, Utley will address reporters about his uncertain future.
There are likely no clear answers and in some ways, that explains Utley's reluctance to speak. The usual briefings from Phillies general manager Ruben Amaro Jr. result in some form of "status quo."
"I'm sure he's frustrated," Amaro said recently. "He should be frustrated. We all would. But actually his demeanor is pretty good. I know he's disappointed he's not playing, but he understands it, and he's being patient as he possibly can. He's not a real patient guy, but overall he's being pretty patient.
"He's not happy he's not playing, but he's not distraught."
The greatest emphasis has been placed on patience. Head athletic trainer Scott Sheridan said the team needed to do research on more conservative options to treat the chronic knee problems. Surgery, as Utley said earlier this spring, is not "cut and dried." The fact that the Phillies are willing to first exhaust all nonsurgical options explains the complex nature and uncertain prognosis surgery provides.
After the diagnosis, Utley was asked about possibly being ready for opening day. He began speaking of the three years left on his contract and how he has a whole rest of a career left to worry about.
That raised plenty of eyebrows.
