Howard Wins Arbitration, 10 Million

This is one that the Phillies might not mind losing. Ryan Howard won his arbitration case against the Phillies, earning the 10 million he asked for, instead of the 7 million the Phillies offered. That figure ties the record given to a player in arbitration. Alfonso Soriano also won 10 million back in 2006. This is also the first arbitration case the Phillies have ever lost, and the first any team has lost this year.

So, did the Phillies lose on purpose just to appease their slugger? I doubt it. They aren't the type of team that likes to spend any more money than they have to. I think this is simply a case of a special player deserving to win his case. I was listening to an interview with Jayson Stark the other day, and he was saying the only player did anything that compares to Ryan Howard's 127 home runs hit in his first 2 1/2 seasons would be Babe Ruth when he first became a hitter. If Ruth a comparable player, then Howard will easily earn his 10 million. Let's hope that any hard feelings Howard might have had for the organization are gone now, and he can focus on hitting. Another solid year this season should guarantee him that long term deal he is looking for.