Stuck in an 0-for-23 slump (and hitless in eight days), Chase Utley was out of the starting lineup when it was posted outside the Phillies clubhouse this afternoon.

Despite his recent swoon, it's a little surprising. The Phils haven't won a series since two weekends ago in Atlanta. They've lost five of their last six and seven out of their last 10.

They need a win... and you'd think they'd be in better shape with Utley.Even if he's slumping, you have to think he's due to break out, right?

But Eric Bruntlett, who has been a serviceable reserve this year, is playing second and batting eighth. Pat Burrell is hitting third.

Burrell actually it third in 47 games last year, hitting .240 with 12 home runs and 37 RBIs.

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The Archive Files

Vladimir Guerrero continues the kill the Phillies and Adam Eaton struggles in loss to Angels Friday night.