Howard still in boot, Utley inactive

LAKELAND, Fla. — The right side of the Phillies' starting infield remains largely inactive less than four weeks until opening day.

Ryan Howard will wear a walking boot for at least another week and "maybe longer," general manager Ruben Amaro Jr. said Friday. And Chase Utley is barely participating in infield drills and has yet to play in a game.

Howard is no longer dealing with an infection, but the new wound where two surgeries have been performed since he ruptured his Achilles tendon is still healing. The team's original timetable of a May return is obviously unlikely given this lengthy setback.

"We're just being really cautious with it," Amaro said. "The wound itself has to heal."

The first baseman has not participated in a team workout in two weeks. He reported to camp over his usual playing weight and conditioning has been a challenge.

"He's not doing a lot right now because he's in a boot," Amaro said.

Utley has also been elusive during workouts. He has taken regular batting practice with his teammates but rarely completed infield work. Amaro expects Utley, who is attempting to manage a chronically injured right knee, to play at some point this spring.

Amaro said he spoke with Charlie Manuel and the two agreed Utley needs around 30 or 40 at-bats to prepare for the season. With minor-league games beginning Monday, the team can use the loose rules there to squeeze Utley into more action in a short period.

"We can get him as many at-bats as we want," Amaro said.

The GM said the decision to progress Utley slower than everyone else was a decision made jointly by the club, doctors and player.

Contact Matt Gelb at mgelb@phillynews.com or follow on Twitter @magelb.