Phillies fans woke up Thursday morning with heavy hearts after hearing that six-time all-star baseman Chase Utley was traded to the Los Angeles Dodgers.
It had been rumored, but now that it's official, some registered disbelief.
"I was really disappointed about that, very disappointed," said Natasha Lee of Northeast Philadelphia.
Kensington resident Rodney Tucker says, "Why would they trade Chase Utley? He's the best second baseman they've ever had. Why would they trade him?"
Utley didn't play in last night's victory over Toronto, but got a standing ovation nonetheless and tipped his hat to the crowd.
Daniel Raikin of Lower Merion said, "Sad to see him go. But team is turning over a new leaf, hopefully he'll have fun playing Jimmy Rollins again."
Utley was the last athlete left in Philadelphia that played at Veterans Stadium. He was a huge part of the team that won the 2008 World Series plus two pennants and five straight NL east titles.
He also was involved in the community off the field, and has worked to raise awareness about animal cruelty.
"It's not so much changing uniforms, it's about leaving the city that has given so much over 12-13 years I've been here," said Chase Utley.
It's a city he loved, and a city that loves him back.
"I think even when he comes and plays in Philly, he'll get the same response Jimmy Rollins got when he came back. Fans are going to love him no matter where he plays," said Helen Jackson of Northeast Philadelphia.