Ryan Howard had successful surgery Wednesday to repair a torn left Achilles tendon.
Howard had a complete tear, and Phillies GM Ruben Amaro said he anticipates the first baseman needing 5-6 months "until he can play at his accustomed level." Given that timetable, Howard almost surely won't be ready for the beginning of next season, though Amaro is still holding out hope. It will be interesting to see if the Phillies bring in some insurance for first base over the offseason or possibly just put John Mayberry there until Howard is ready. Howard's five-year, $125 million extension kicks in next year.
It really sucked seeing Howard getting hurt on the last pitch of the Phillies season but the only thing worse is his contract. The next five years are going to hurt. Phillies didn't have Utley to start this season and it looks like they won't Howard for next.