Utley doesn't respond to cortisone shot

The Phillies have finally provided an update on Chase Utley's knee injury.

Team physician Dr. Michael Ciccotti issued a statement saying that the second baseman's knee problems have not responded to treatment as well as they have previously.

"When [Utley] reported to spring training this year, his knee was treated as it had been in the past, however his symptoms continued," Ciccotti said. "An MRI was obtained that demonstrated his prior tendinitis, chondromalacia, and bone inflammation. His chondromalacia symptoms persisted in spite of focused non-operative care, including a cortisone injection."

Ciccotti went on to say that "continued non-operative treatment is being carried out and additional opinions will be obtained." Surgery, however, may eventually be required.

The oft-injured Utley appeared in just 115 games last season, the fewest since he became a full- time player. Over that time, he batted just .275 with 16 home runs and 65 RBI, all of which were the lowest since the 2004 season.