PHILADELPHIA (CBS) -- The Philadelphia Phillies today provided a laundry list of updates for players who underwent off-season surgery or are coming back from injury.

At the top of the list is first baseman Ryan Howard, who suffered a ruptured Achilles tendon on the final swing of the NLDS against the Cardinals (photo).

He had his stitches from surgery removed on October 25th and has begun a rehabilitation program in Philadelphia.

LHP Cole Hamels, who underwent surgery to remove loose bodies from his elbow, had his stitches removed on Thursday.  He is also rehabbing in Philadelphia.

Hamels also had a follow-up exam for his hernia surgery and has been cleared to return to his off-season program as tolerated.

Both OF Hunter Pence and 3B Placido Polanco are continuing their respective rehabilitation programs following sports hernia surgery.

In addition, RHP Jose Contreras continues to work to strengthen his injured right forearm, and 1B/OF Ross Gload has been set up with an off-season rehabilitation program to deal with his injured hip.

Reported by Matt Leon, KYW Newsradio 1060

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