A myriad of events are available this month as sports betting is full of playoff series, including NBA odds, Premier League Soccer, and spring baseball. The MLB season is only a few weeks old, but there is lots of news to keep in mind as the season progresses.
This week, a sudden surprise announcement by a top NL contender has made big headlines. The Philadelphia Phillies has reached an agreement with slugger Ryan Howard, as the first baseman signed a 5 year extension on his contract worth $125 million. The deal could keep the All-star in a Phillies uniform until 2017-his contract was to expire in two years, but Howard was not eager to test the free agent market.
Howard has been one of the best hitters since he came into the league. He is one of four players in the history of the league to hit at least 40 home runs and 130 RBIs in four straight seasons, second only to Babe Ruth. He stacks up well to his main slugging contemporary, Albert Pujols of the St. Louis Cardinals. Since 2006, Howard has more home runs and RBIs than Pujols, but also more strike outs. He slugging and on base percentage has been lower than the Cardinal as well, but this year Howard has made adjustments. His has lost weight and is toe to toe with Pujols in every major offensive category this season.
Locking up one of the best hitters in the leagues makes the Phillies perennial contenders with Howard as the offensive centerpiece. With an ace pitcher Roy Halladay, with offensive prowess lead by Howard, there is no reason the Phillies won't win the NL for the third straight season and contend for the World Series Championship.
