Phillies' Howard: Reduced playing time isn't 'right or fair'
Veteran Ryan Howard didn't anticipate his final month with the Philadelphia Phillies would mean less time on the field. Especially after hitting .314 in August with six home runs in 16 games.
According to Bob Ford of Philly.com, Howard was surprised to learn his September playing time would be reduced by manager Pete Mackanin, so that his platoon partner - 25-year-old rookie Tommy Joseph - can see at-bats against right-handed pitching.
"You're talking about an evaluation process of where you've gotten to see players this year play. And you'll have another opportunity to see those same players play again next year and I won't be here," Howard said Wednesday. "So, for me, I just want to play. I don't necessarily think it's right or fair, considering this is my last month here, but it is interesting."
Mackanin told the media Tuesday about his intention to start Joseph more frequently, though when asked Wednesday, the manager said Howard would still be playing "a lot" - just not facing every right-hander.
Howard is looking for an answer to the "why now?" With just three weeks left in the season, he only has 29 games to audition for a role on another team next season, when he'll be 37.
"I want to finish the season strong, finish my time here in Philadelphia on a good note, and go somewhere else and play," he said.
The first baseman has spent his entire career, spanning 13 seasons, playing for the Phillies.