Philadelphia Phillies’ Ryan Howard undergoes surgery, out for at least 6 months – MLB News
Philadelphia Phillies’ first baseman and cleanup hitter Ryan Howard might be out for a good part of the next season after undergoing a surgery on his left Achilles’ muscle on Wednesday, October 12.
The left-handed slugger aggravated the injury on a swing in Game 5 of the National League Division Series against St. Louis Cardinals, which later proved to be the last play of the season for the Phillies. After connecting, Howard could manage just three
strides out of the box and then fell on the first base line.
The Phillies were comforted by the fact that Howard suffered this injury on his last at-bat and are hopeful that their star hitter will return to action prior to the next season.
Talking to reporters after the surgery, general manager Ruben Amaro Jr. said, “It happened on his last at-bat of the season, and I hope he makes his first at-bat of the season.”
Practically speaking, the recovery time after an Achilles surgery is usually six months, but depending on the situation of the patient, the recovery time may extend to nine months. Moreover, making a return to the Majors after an injury is easier said than
done and Howard will have to spend a significant time in the minor leagues as well.
Commenting on Howard’s surgery, Amaro asserted that the player had a full tear and thus his leg will be immobilized for at least two weeks. Doctors have suggested that Howard can begin reinforcement exercises in about a month’s time.
Claiming that Howard will return well in time for the regular season, Amaro said, “It’s going to be five to six months from surgery before he can play at his accustomed level. A lot depends on how he recovers and how the surgery takes, but we’re talking
five to six months.”
Howard displayed his true eminence in the regular season, but failed to make a mark in the dented postseason campaign. The left-handed slugger lashed 33 home-runs in the regular season, but managed just a solitary homer in five-games during the playoffs
at a sully slugging percentage of .263.
His fitness and presence will be vital for the Phillies when they enter the next season.
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