Ryan Howard Shines in Hall of Fame East-West Classic, Wins Bob Feller Player of the Game Award
On Saturday, baseball fans were treated to a nostalgic spectacle at the Hall of Fame East-West Classic in Cooperstown, where Philadelphia Phillies legend Ryan Howard showcased that he still has his iconic sweet swing. The former slugger, renowned for his towering home runs and powerful left-handed swing, hit a decisive three-run home run, propelling the East team to a 5-4 victory over the West.
The annual Hall of Fame East-West Classic, held at the historic Doubleday Field, serves as a tribute to the legends of Black baseball and the Negro League All-Star game. This year’s event featured an impressive lineup of former MLB stars and All-Stars, including Prince Fielder, Curtis Granderson, B.J. and Justin Upton, Dexter Fowler, and David Price. Additionally, 14 high-profile Hall of Famers, such as Ken Griffey Jr., Ryne Sandberg, Joe Torre, and Rollie Fingers, served as coaches, adding further prestige to the event.
Howard, who earned the nickname “The Big Piece” during his illustrious career with the Phillies, played a pivotal role in the East team’s victory. His three-run home run not only put the East team ahead for good but also secured him the Bob Feller Player of the Game award. Reflecting on his performance and the significance of the event, Howard expressed his gratitude for being part of a game that honors the contributions of Black baseball players to the sport.
“It continues to show the growth of the game, being able to recognize how important Black baseball is to the game of baseball and being able to showcase it up here in Cooperstown I think is very big,” Howard said after the game, per the National Baseball Hall of Fame’s Bill Francis. “For me, it’s just to continue to pay homage to those who paved the way for guys like myself.”
Howard’s participation in the East-West Classic brought back memories of his dominant years in Major League Baseball. From 2004 to 2016, he was one of the most feared hitters in the game. During a remarkable six-year stretch from 2006 to 2011, Howard slashed .274/.370/.559 with an OPS of .929, averaging 44 home runs, 133 RBIs, 96 runs scored, and 84 walks per season. His 2006 MVP season stands out as one of the greatest in baseball history, as he hit .313/.425/.659 with 58 home runs, 149 RBIs, 104 runs scored, and 108 walks.
Throughout his career, Howard cemented his legacy as one of the Phillies’ all-time greats. He is the franchise’s all-time leader for first baseman in games played (1,572), runs (848), hits (1,475), doubles (277), home runs (382), and RBIs (1,194). He also ranks second in slugging percentage (.515) and fifth in OPS (.859).
While Howard has not yet been enshrined in the Baseball Hall of Fame, his contributions to the game and his extraordinary career ensure that he remains a beloved figure among baseball fans. His performance in the East-West Classic was a reminder of the power and finesse that defined his playing days.
The Hall of Fame East-West Classic not only provided a platform for former players to relive their glory days but also highlighted the rich history and contributions of Black baseball players. As Howard and his fellow players took the field, they honored the legacy of those who came before them and paved the way for future generations.
In the end, the East team’s 5-4 victory, highlighted by Howard’s game-winning home run, was a fitting tribute to the enduring impact of Black baseball players on the sport. As the crowd at Doubleday Field cheered for their heroes, it was clear that the spirit of the game, and the legacy of those who played it, continues to thrive.
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