Power-hitting first baseman who played 13 seasons with the Philadelphia Phillies, winning a World Series championship and earning three All-Star selections. Known for his impressive home run totals and clutch hitting.
Ryan Howard, affectionately known as "The Big Piece," is an American former professional baseball first baseman who spent his entire 13-year career playing for the Philadelphia Phillies from 2004 to 2016. He is renowned for being the fastest player in baseball history to reach both 100 home runs and 200 home runs.
Howard's impressive career is marked by numerous achievements, including winning the National League (NL) Rookie of the Year Award in 2005 and the NL Most Valuable Player (MVP) Award in 2006. He was a three-time NL All-Star (2006, 2009, and 2010) and won the Silver Slugger Award, Hank Aaron Award, and the NL Championship Series MVP Award in 2009.
As a testament to his power, Howard is a member of the 50 home run club and a two-time NL home run champion (2006 and 2008). He holds the distinction of being the fastest player to reach both the 100 and 200 home run milestones in MLB history, passing the marks in 2007 and 2009, respectively.
Howard holds numerous Philadelphia Phillies franchise records, solidifying his place in the team's history. His impressive career statistics include 382 home runs, 1,194 runs batted in (RBIs), and a .258 career batting average in 1,572 games played.
In recognition of his achievements, Missouri State University retired Howard's number on December 18, 2010. His legacy continues to inspire future generations of baseball players.
Ryan Howard was born on November 19, 1979, in Florissant, Missouri. He attended Lafayette High School in Wildwood, Missouri, and Missouri State University, where he played college baseball for the Bears from 1998 to 2001.
Howard's collegiate career was marked by impressive achievements, including being named the 1999 Missouri Valley Conference Freshman of the Year. He finished his collegiate career with 50 home runs, 183 RBIs, and a .335 career batting average in 172 games played.
Ryan Howard's impressive career has had a profound impact on modern society. He has inspired countless young athletes to pursue their passion for baseball, and his achievements have left an indelible mark on the sport.
As a testament to his influence, Howard has been involved in various charitable initiatives, including the Ryan Howard Family Foundation, which focuses on promoting education, health, and youth development.
Ryan Howard's remarkable career is a testament to his dedication, hard work, and passion for the sport. As one of the most successful players in Philadelphia Phillies' history, his legacy will continue to inspire future generations of baseball players.
Howard's impressive achievements have cemented his place in baseball history, and his impact on the sport will be felt for years to come.
47 Years Old
A three-time All-Star and two-time Gold Glove winner, he is a legendary shortstop known for his impressive defensive skills and hitting prowess.
47 Years Old
A gritty, hard-nosed second baseman with a penchant for clutch hitting and smooth fielding, earning him a reputation as a leader on the Philadelphia Phillies' World Series championship team.
42 Years Old
Left-handed pitcher with a 15-year MLB career, known for his dominant fastball and changeup, helping the Philadelphia Phillies win the 2008 World Series.
45 Years Old
A talented outfielder with a strong arm and clutch hitting, winning multiple Gold Glove and Silver Slugger awards, and helping teams win World Series championships.
46 Years Old
A professional baseball outfielder who played 15 seasons in the MLB, earning a World Series championship and multiple All-Star selections. Known for his powerful hitting and strong throwing arm.
49 Years Old
A dominant closer who saved 48 games in 2008, including the final out of the World Series, earning him a perfect season. He's a legendary figure in Philadelphia Phillies history.
47 Years Old
A dominant left-handed pitcher with a strong postseason record, known for his exceptional control and ability to perform under pressure.
48 Years Old
A dominant pitcher with a perfect game and postseason no-hitter, known for his exceptional control and two Cy Young Awards.