J Platt, Hot Stove Philly – This is a tough one. Both players are irreplaceable cogs to their team. Wright has been more consistent overall, while Utley started like a house on fire, but cooled after the All-Star Break. While Wright possesses more power, Utley is more dependable for the big hit. Defensively, Utley has improved but Wright has developed into a Gold Glove caliber third baseman. If you factor in position (which does contribute to overall value), Utley is the best offensive second baseman in baseball, while Wright has stiff competition at third base right in his own city. When it comes to intangibles, I don’t think there are many who hustle more then Utley, so I’ll give him the edge, but Wright is clearly superior in the leadership department. Wright has become the leader of the Mets, while Utley maintains a strong presence, he isn’t the Phillies leader.

It wouldn’t surprise me to see each of these player claim an MVP award in their career. This one’s a draw.

Jeff Freier, Hot Stove New York - I think they’re both very similar. Their stats are pretty darn close to each other. Utley has more home runs and Wright has more RBIs. If you asked this question in May it would be Utley hands down, but now it’s about even. Wright’s been making Gold Glove, game-saving plays every night but Utley’s a great fielder, too. Utley’s probably more clutch (right?), but Wright’s five years younger. I’d say even.