Ryne Sandberg is aware of Chase Utley's vesting option for 2016, but says the contract issue won't dictate who he puts in the lineup.

Utley, 37, has a $15 million option for next season that vests if he reaches 500 plate appearances this season.

He entered Monday's action with 244 plate appearances, nearly halfway to the mark. The Phillies have played 72 games.

"I know that he has (that option), but I don't operate with that in mind," Sandberg said.