John Middleton, the managing partner of the Phillies, was right there front and center for what was likely Chase Utley's final moments as a ballplayer at Citizens Bank Park.
Utley didn't provide much heroics on the field during his final regular-season series in Philadelphia (1 for 8 at the plate), but he certainly pulled at Philly fans' heartstrings a few final times.
After receiving standing ovations when he came to bat, Utley got one final moment to soak it all in after the final out Wednesday.
Utley gathered his glove and sunglasses in the dugout following the Phillies' victory to win the series (see first take). He spotted Middleton watching him from up the steps. The two embraced, shared some words and Utley eventually tipped his hat to the Philly fans who love him so much.
It was an emotional goodbye but one more memory to add to the hundreds he provided us over the years.
"It was surreal," Utley said after the game of his final days at Citizens Bank Park. "I've said it over and over again but I can't thank the fans enough for the amount of support they showed me. Not only for this series but when I played here in Philadelphia. One thing I'm happy about is that I got to thank them in person. I hope they understand how important they are to me."
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A potential playoff matchup between Philly and L.A. aside, "The Man" has played his final game in Philadelphia.
Goodbye, Chase. Thanks for everything.
Photo by Bill Streicher for USA Today Images
