PT TOMORROW: NL East—Ryan Howard losing playing time

Philadelphia Phillies

Ryan Howard (1B, PHI) is in the midst of what could wind up being the worst season of his career. The veteran slugger currently sports a .224/.306/.380 slash line with 16 HR and 62 RBI in 384 AB. His current .380 slugging percentage would be the worst of his career as he has never posted a slugging percentage below .423 in a season.

Left-handed pitching has given Howard problems over the years, but he has actually fared better against them this season (.232/.399/.453 with 6 HR and 40 K in 95) than he has against right-handers (.221/.308/.356 with 10 HR and 82 K in 289 AB).

Manager Ryne Sandberg even took the step of benching Howard for three consecutive games recently. Darin Ruf (1B/OF, PHI) started each of those...

Almost!

You’re just a few clicks away from accessing this feature and hundreds more throughout the year that have a singular goal in mind: Winning your league. Subscribe to BaseballHQ.com here!

Already a subscriber? Sign in here

More From PT Tomorrow

NL West: Díaz to see regular playing time in SD and early season bullpen usage around the NL West
Apr 3 2025 3:08am
How will Richard Fitts be affected by the expected returns of Brayan Bello and Lucas Giolito? Plus, more injury and opening weekend fallout from the AL East.
Apr 2 2025 3:08am
With Josh Jung hurt again, does Jake Burger moving back to 3B make the most sense for the Rangers?
Apr 1 2025 3:09am
And where could the Pirates turn for saves if their late inning relievers continue to struggle?
Mar 29 2025 3:07am
With several outfielders starting the season on the IL, Javier Báez has been getting some center field reps in Detroit.
Mar 28 2025 3:08am

Tools