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10 bench players who will play integral roles in MLB playoffs

Josh Hamilton

Los Angeles Dodgers (87-68): Chase Utley, Infield

Sep 25, 2015; Denver, CO, USA; Los Angeles Dodgers third baseman Chase Utley (26) doubles in the fifth inning against the Colorado Rockies at Coors Field. Mandatory Credit: Ron Chenoy-USA TODAY Sports

The 2009 World Series champion rejoined his fellow Philadelphia middle infielder Jimmy Rollins at the 2015 trade deadline. The 36-year-old injury prone middle infielder will provide leadership and experience to the Dodgers as they look to win their seventh World Series.

The six-time All Star second baseman has been playing some third base this season as the Dodgers look to get his stalwart defense and solid bat in the lineup. While one could argue that Rollins and Utley are unstoppable up the middle, starting second baseman Howie Kendrick has had the upper hand on Utley in all facets of the game. Since joining LA, Utley is batting .220 with only eight RBI. However, Utley is known for delivering in the clutch, so look for him to pinch hit early in games, and even possibly sub as a defensive replacement late in games as well.

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