Pete Mackanin Wants Ryan Howard To 'Shine' During Last Three Games
PHILADELPHIA (CBS) -- Ryan Howard will complete his 13th season with the Philadelphia Phillies this weekend.
Many expect the Phillies to pay Howard's $10 million buyout before the 2017 season, meaning his last game as a Phillie will likely be Sunday at Citizens Bank Park against the New York Mets.
The 36-year-old three-time all-star, two-time home run champ, 2006 NL MVP, and World Series Champion deserves a going out party.
Related: Use #ThanksRyan to thank Howard on Twitter
"I want him to go out gangbusters," Phillies manager Pete Mackanin said when asked about Howard on the 94WIP Morning Show. "He hit that grand slam last night which got us up to a good lead and he's been swinging the bat well, much better the second half of the season. I certainly want him to shine the last three days of the season and hopefully the fans will get to see a good performance from him. Whether he comes back or not remains to be seen. However, I just want -- I like the guy. I respect him. He's been very professional and I just want to see him play well."
Listen: Pete Mackanin on the 94WIP Morning Show
Howard has dealt with his fair share of nay sayers over the past few campaigns, especially during his early-season struggles this year. However, despite batting just .196, Howard still wracked up 24 homers in 108 games.
Related: 4 Reasons We Should Leave Ryan Howard Alone
On Tuesday night against the Braves, Howard hit his 15th career grand slam.
