Utley Expects to be Back Sept. 1

Chase Utley (thumb) could have the splint from his surgically repaired thumb removed in the next 2-3 days.

Utley can begin doing exercises to strengthen the thumb once the splint in removed. GM Ruben Amaro says the original timetable remains in effect, meaning a return around September 1 can be expected. "We'll see how he feels once he gets out of the splint," Amaro said