Phillies Sign Howard

by Eli Greenspan on Feb 8, 2009 4:15 PM EST

The Phillies and Ryan Howard have agreed to a three year deal worth 54 million dollars, avoiding arbitration. Howard, hit .251 with 48 HR and 146 RBI in 162 games last season, will earn 15 million dollars next season. "We're very pleased to have avoided the arbitration process, not just for this year, but also for the next two," general manager Ruben Amaro Jr. said. "Ryan is clearly one of the top power hitters and run producers in the major leagues and is a very important part of our championship club." Howard won't be a free agent until after the 2011 season, so this new deal simply buys out his arbitration years.

This story was approved by MLB Rumors.

Tweet Comment 2 comments | 0 recs |

Do you like this story?

Comments

thank god!!!!! it took them long enough. well worth the money. no brainer. if amaro would've lost him down the road for this, philly would have his head!

by Anonymous on Feb 9, 2009 8:54 AM EST reply actions

He got exactly what he asked for in arbitration...$18 Million.

They should have thrown him a 6 or 7 year deal for $120 Million. Philly needs Howard, Utley, Hamels, and maybe even Rollins to be lifers, like Mike Schmidt. It'll show a dedication to winning, not only to the fans, but to other free agents as well....and that means more championships.

by Baseball Stu on Feb 9, 2009 2:44 PM EST reply actions