I won my sport’s biggest prize and it was the best feeling – but starring in an iconic sitcom was also great
CHASE UTLEY experienced the ultimate high in his sport when he became a baseball World Series champion.
The 44-year-old played 15 years in Major League Baseball with the best of those coming at the Philadelphia Phillies.
Utley realised his dream and became a legend in Philadelphia when he starred in their 2008 season of glory.
Speaking to SunSport, Utley recalled: “It’s the best feeling in the world.
“It takes so much to get to the playoffs and have success in the playoffs.
“Not just yourself, but your teammates, coaching staff, front office, trainers, so many people are involved.
“To see everyone’s dreams fulfiled is an exciting moment.
“The attention to playoff games are magnified, just the overall excitement and adrenaline it creates, there’s really nothing like it.
“Adding on the fact that the crowds are extremely excited and intense, it just creates those moments that you never forget.”
He endeared himself to the city of Philadelphia even more when he appeared in an iconic sitcom.
Chase played himself in two episodes of It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia.
The hit show has aired since 2005 and still going strong with it’s 16th season just wrapped up.
Utley responded to a letter from Rob McElhenney’s lead character Mac in 2013, and he featured in the show again this summer.
He admitted: “That was great, I’ve done it a couple of times.
“These guys are so successful that their show is still airing and they’re still making people laugh, so they asked me to come it again and make a guest appearance and I was happy to do so.
“It was fun, these guys are now my friends so it was an easy day at the office.
“I think the city of Philadelphia, the fan base live and die by their sports and it makes you appreciate them much more.
“To be able to bring them a World Series back in 2008, I can’t tell you how many thank yous I still get to this day.”
The 44-year-old moved to London last year and now promotes baseball in the UK for the MLB’s Europe office.
His former Phillies team take on the New York Mets at West Ham’s London Stadium next summer.
Utley said: “I thought the games in June were fantastic – both the Chicago Cubs and St Louis Cardinals fans showed up.
“The place was packed, it was loud, it was a great atmosphere and an overall great experience.
“I’m a little bit more excited about next year’s games because my Phillies are playing.
“I can’t wait for them to be over here and play – I’m excited for them to come over.”
Philadelphia Phillies will play New York Mets in the MLB World Tour: London Series 2024 on June 8-9 at London Stadium. For ticket and event updates, register at mlb.com/londonseries