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MLB players, past and present, react to Chase Utley’s takeout slide

After Chase Utley's controversial takeout slide Saturday, many players—active and retired—spoke out about the play.

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MLB players, past and present, react to Chase Utley’s takeout slide
MLB players, past and present, react to Chase Utley’s takeout slide /

Los Angeles Dodgers second baseman Chase Utley’s takeout slide in the seventh inning of Game 2 of the NLDS helped the Dodgers rally late to even their series with the New York Mets 1–1

The slide was the center of much controversy, as it broke the leg of Mets shortstop Ruben Tejada, and managed to secure Utley second base despite the fact neither of the two actually touched the base.

Replays showed Utley started his slide right at the second base bag, upending Tejada—who caught a throw from teammate Daniel Murphy with his back to the oncoming runner. It allowed the tying run to score, and the Dodgers added three more runs in the frame to win 5–2.

Afterwards, many players—active and retired—spoke out about the play.

Here’s TBS analyst Pedro Martinez:

Mets righthanded pitcher Logan Verrett isn’t on their postseason roster, but was watching the game:

Mets lefthanded reliever Jerry Blevins, who was lost for the season due to injury:

Rockies shortstop Jose Reyes, who began his career with the Mets:

Padres outfielder Justin Upton, who was drafted as a shortstop:

Others didn’t take too much issue with Utley’s slide, like Angels outfielder Shane Victorino:

Former starting pitcher Mark Mulder:

Finally, Nationals outfielder Tony Gwynn Jr. called it good baseball:

It was certainly a polarizing issue, and more reactions will likely come Sunday.

- Kenny Ducey

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