"You couldn't tell from watching Chase Utley yesterday, but the All-Star second baseman apparently has been playing with a minor hip injury that the Phillies had been keeping secret.

Utley, in fact, still won't admit he's hurt.

"Chase has been bothered by a little bit of an injury that he's been playing with ... a problem with his hip," general manager Pat Gillick said before the Phils' 12-10 win over Atlanta.

Asked about his hip, Utley smiled and said, "I have no idea what you're talking about. I understand why you'd ask the question because I think I'd ask the same question. I think this is just a miscommunication or something."

Manager Charlie Manuel did say Utley had some "bumps and bruises" on July 12 when resting the second baseman for the only time this season.

Utley has been slumping of late - he broke an 0-for-17 spell on Friday - but singled twice on Sunday. He also had no problems running and attempted to steal a base in the ninth inning, although he was caught stealing for the first time in 11 attempts this season.

"It's been a little bit sore," Gillick said. "Nothing to keep him out of the lineup, but certainly if it's sore a little bit it could have some effect on his hitting."

It appears the Phillies, who are off today, will turn to Triple-A Lehigh Valley for bullpen help starting tomorrow in Washington - J.A. Happ.

Management has been thinking about trying the rookie starter in relief, and Happ was removed on Sunday from his start in Richmond after 22/3 scoreless innings and 41 pitches.

The speculation is Happ will replace one of two struggling right-handed relievers, Rudy Seanez or Adam Eaton. A release is possible, but a disabled list stint seems more likely.

"I'm physically fine," Happ said when reached by phone. "They haven't made a move yet, so I don't feel it's appropriate to comment. I'm still waiting for the phone call.""