Watch CBS News

Ryan Howard Is Drawing Some Trade Interest, Per Report

PHILADELPHIA (CBS) -- Contrary to popular belief, Ryan Howard may have some trade value after all.

The Phillies "are getting feelers from teams now that his five-year, $125 million contract is nearing its end," John Perrotto of Today's Knuckleball reports. The belief is, Howard could be used as an extra power bat in the American League.

"I'd take him just to have him come off the bench in a pennant race and the postseason," an AL scout tells Perrotto via Today's Knuckleball. "He's pretty much at the end of the line but the one thing he can still do is pop a ball out of the ballpark. He might win you a game or two for you that way."

Related: Report: Phils Preparing For Jeremy Hellickson Trade With Marlins

Howard, 36, has a 2017 option which includes just a $10 million buy-out. The three-time all-star first baseman is hitting just .165 in 75 games with 76 strikeouts, but does have 14 home runs and 30 RBI's in 238 plate appearances.

Related: Ryan Howard To Open New Training Center In Philly

Howard is starting for the Phillies on Tuesday night in Miami against the Marlins, batting cleanup.

View CBS News In
CBS News App Open
Chrome Safari Continue
Be the first to know
Get browser notifications for breaking news, live events, and exclusive reporting.