by The GM on May 8 at 4:05PM
I've heard of some players starting off slow. I've heard that some players just need some time. But, how much time is enough time? How slow is too slow?Ryan Howard is the perfect of example of too slow. After 36 games, Howard is hitting an insulting .161 with 50 strikeouts in 123 at-bats. I think it is time for the Phillies to sit him until he gets his mind right.
I know the argument. "But, you can't sit Ryan Howard, he's a superstar." Really? A superstar? He puts up the same numbers as Adam Dunn and I don't hear anyone calling him the greatest player in the game today. Sure, Howard hits for a little more average, but in the end, strikeouts and home runs are the norm.
Let's take a look at his career numbers:
At-Bats: 1584
Hits: 445
Home runs: 135
RBI: 369
Strikeouts: 543
ABs per HR: 11.7
ABs per K: 2.9
Now, if Howard is hitting a home run every 12 at-bats, that is pretty good. A nice solid bat in the middle of the lineup. But, When Howard is striking out once every three at-bats, that number doesn't seem so appetizing.
Who would take Howard's place in the meantime? Philly could put Greg Dobbs at first for a while. He had a decent season last year and is hitting .302 so far this year.
With Philadelphia tied for the NL East lead, the Phillies can afford to let Howard stay in the lineup. But, if they eliminate Howard's numerous strike outs from the lineup, then maybe Philly could take the lead and build some distance between them and second place.
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Comments
I think he needs a "get it in gear" BJ from that special woman that holds the keys (or tongue) to his success!!
Think the Phillies front office would have her number on speed dial by now!
I think Brett Myers and Cole Hamels could use some of that MOJO as well.
I think Howard still has the huge hole in his swing...it was not fixed the year he hit 58 homeruns and it wasn't fixed last year. That lady friend...eh, not happening anytime soon. Myers blows
36 games* not 136.