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.