Ryan Howard has become one of the best hitting power hitters in baseball today. His size and strength allow him to crush the ball and lead the league in home runs. He has helped the team to the World Series title and is a big hit in Philadelphia as many kids can be seen wearing Ryan Howard jerseys. Combined with the pitching of Cliff Lee, they almost made it back to the World Series again, but fell short this year. Howard is still young and the Phillies should be able to be very competitive in 2010.
When it comes to hitting home runs there will always be doubt now since many people have admitted to be on some kind of performance enhancers. From McGwire to ARod to Bonds to Ramirez, no one knows for sure who exactly was clean during the past 20 years or so. Hopefully Howard does not tarnish his jersey and come back testing positive for any kind of banned substance.
I think many of the big time power hitters of the past era will be questioned. Sosa has not came out and said much yet, but many are expecting the worst. It will be interesting to see if any of the guys make it to Cooperstown and into the Hall of Fame. I think some will but may will not.
Howard’s defense is also very good and he is improving more and more at first base. While he is not the fastest guy in the world, he has good footwork and moves around well. He has always impressed in the home run derby and he will always be known for a power hitter and that is what brings the fans into the stadium every day of the summer.
Philly loves there players like no one else so grab a jersey and take a seat. If you are rooting for the other team prepared to get heckled there, since they love their teams.
