Should the Phillies change their core?

As the smoke clears, and Phillies fans ponder what could have been...I ask this question.  Should the Phillies consider trading Chase Utley?  As it stands right now, the Phils will likely lose Jayson Werth to free agency this offseason.   Trading Utley would give the Phillies the payroll flexibility to possibly sign Werth and keep him in Philly.   Is it a risk to trade Utley?  Maybe, but clearly his production has dropped significantly the last few seasons.  He hasn't hit .300 since 2007.  His power numbers have dropped from 33 homeruns in 2008, to 31 in 2009, to just 16 in 2010.  His RBI's have dropped from 104 in 2008, to 93 in 2009, to just 65 in 2010.  Clearly a power outage.  So what happened to the power in Chase Utley's bat?  Not to mention his defense hasn't been what it once was.  Yes Chase Utley did have a tremendous 2009 playoff at the plate.  But, he is only a career .243 hitter in the playoffs.   I am not suggesting that Chase Utley was the reason the Phillies lost in the playoffs or that he can no longer play.  The truth of the matter is he will be 32 when the season starts next year and he also looks like a broken down player who can no longer stay healthy for 162 game schedule.  Maybe its time to alter the core.   Its been 2 years since the team won the World Series, and the middle of the lineup hasn't exactly gotten it done.   If they move Utley,  and resign Werth...you keep a gold glove like outfielder in right field.  Not to mention Werth's much needed right handed stick to provide protection in the 5 hole.  If the Phillies lose Werth, who will protect Howard next year?  The Phillies could easily move Polanco to second base and bat him in the 3 hole next year.   Something to ponder.  

-Shawn Brown-

Philly Sports Guys