Ryan Howard once was a menace in the batter’s box, after bursting onto the scene with the Philadelphia Phillies. Winning the National League Rookie of the Year in 2005 and NL MVP in 2006 were just a few highlights during his monstrous career. However, he was released by the Atlanta Braves after just 11 games in Triple-A this season. The Ryan Howard experiment failed Atlanta.
The Ryan Howard Experiment Failed Atlanta
Thinking he could be a good lefty bat to come off the bench late in a ball game, the Braves took a chance on Howard in hopes to propel both parties in 2017. Atlanta desperately needs bench help, as they are currently bringing the likes of Emilio Bonifacio and Jace Peterson on to try to produce runs. Neither are home run hitters. Although both are solid defensive pieces to help a team win, the bench needs more power in games. The thought was that Howard would get off the bench late. He would not have to worry about defense, and would help score runs in key situations.
During his 11-game stint with Gwinnett, Howard hit .184, slugged .263, and only produced one home run. Atlanta was hoping to see more in terms of the power numbers. As a result, the Braves felt they had better options and trade targets. They’re now hoping Danny Santana, recently acquired from the Minnesota Twins for LHP Kevin Chapman and cash, can give the bench a boost. While Howard did not pan out, there was very little risk and huge potential in signing him, though it ultimately proved an unsuccessful union.
Unfortunately, this is probably the end of an amazing era for Howard. He played first base during his career due to his lack of defensive ability. Therefore, unless an American League team wants to take another chance on him as a bench bat or DH option, he has played his last professional baseball game. Sadly, the great career Howard put together fell apart at the end. Even so, people need to remember all the spectacular accomplishments he achieved during his 13 MLB seasons.
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