July 27 -- UTLEY INJURED?

There has been statistical and anecdotal evidence to suggest that a nagging injury is the cause of Chase Utley's month-long slump.

Now, there may be confirmation.

During the nearly two-hour rain delay today at the Bank, GM Pat Gillick was talking about the Phillies' team-wide offensive funk when he offered that Utley is "having some trouble with his [right] hip." And when Charlie Manuel gave Utley a day off July 12, he said the second baseman had a few "knocks and bruises."

So, Chase, what gives?

"I have no idea what you're talking about," Utley said with a smile after the 12-10 win over the Braves. "That's a good question because I don't know anything about that. I understand why you'd ask because I'd ask the same question. I think this is just a miscommunication or something."

Regardless, Utley has only three multi-hit games over his last 19 games and is batting .234 with only three home runs and 10 RBIs in his last 34 games. In his first 69, he batted .317 with 22 home runs and 61 RBIs.

So, what do you think? Is something bugging Utley?

***
J.A. Happ may be rejoining the Phillies. Happ was lifted after throwing 41 pitches in 2-2/3 innings today for triple-A Lehigh Valley, and although the Phillies had no postgame roster moves to announce, Happ told a reporter who covers the IronPigs that he isn't injured. "They haven't made a move yet, so I don't feel it's appropriate to comment. I'm still waiting for the phone call."

So, clearly, something is going on. It wouldn't surprise me to see the Phils recall Happ to be a situational lefty out of the bullpen. A corresponding move would have to be made, of course, and it could involve either Rudy Seanez (6.14 ERA in his last eight outings) or Adam Eaton, who surrendered three runs in two innings today and has pitched twice since being moved to the bullpen 10 days ago.

Stay tuned.