Utley: 'I've got nothing new'

CLEARWATER, Fla. -- It's been five days since Chase Utley was given a cortisone shot in an attempt to relieve the pain from patellar tendinitis in his right knee. After making the decision to go with the injection, the Phillies said an update on the second baseman's status would be available by the end of the weekend.

But Utley's health remains a secret Tuesday. And the longer there is without any official comments, the more questions there are.

After batting practice, Utley was asked specifically how much his right knee has improved since the cortisone shot.

"I've got nothing new for you guys," Utley said. "When I do, I'll let you know."

Utley took batting practice Tuesday as he's done for the last two weeks. After finishing, he walked out to left field and stood with Shane Victorino, Ryan Howard and Jimmy Rollins. He walked to retrieve some balls that were hit his way, but no running. He has yet to do that since being diagnosed with the tendinitis. Of course, the Phillies have never shut the door on the injury being worse.

As head athletic trainer Scott Sheridan was ushered to meet reporters to discuss Domonic Brown's surgery Tuesday morning, a Phillies official ordered no questions asked about Utley. So Sheridan offered just this: "He's a nice gentleman."

Phillies general manager Ruben Amaro Jr. was out of town last night and this morning and that's why the Phillies said there will be no updates. But the GM has returned to Clearwater, and indications are there could be news this afternoon.

For now, the silence and secrecy says enough.

Have a question? Send it to Matt Gelb's Mailbag.

Download our NEW iPhone/Android app for easy access to all of our Phillies coverage, plus app-exclusive videos and analysis. Get it here.