Phillies 2B Utley has successful hip surgery

Nov 25, 2008 - 7:26 PM PHILADELPHIA (Ticker) -- The reigning World Series champion Philadelphia Phillies reported no complications after second baseman Chase Utley underwent surgery on his troublesome right hip.

The surgery was performed Monday by Dr. Bryan Kelly at the Hospital for Special Surgery in New York.

The Phillies said the surgery went well, and Utley is facing a recovery time of four to six months, as previously described.

Since the end of the World Series, the 29-year-old Utley has had several diagnostic studies in regards to right hip symptoms that he experienced during the 2008 season.

Monday's surgery involved an arthroscopic debridement of his labrum. He may be able to resume baseball activities in three or four months.

However, a six-month recovery would last until late May 2009, meaning Utley could miss at least the first full month of the season.

Last season, he batted .292 with 33 home runs and 104 RBI in 159 games.

The Phillies also announced that third baseman Pedro Feliz underwent lower back surgery last Thursday.

Feliz, 33, was on the disabled list during the 2008 season for 26 days due to a lower back injury and had symptoms at the end of the season that required a follow-up.

Feliz is facing an 8-to-12 week rehabilitation program.