Ryan Howard Cleared for Light Exercise

The Associated Press is reporting that Philadelphia Phillies first baseman Ryan Howard has been cleared to begin conducting light exercises again.  Howard, who required surgery to remove an infection that had developed in his left foot two weeks ago, remains in a walking boot.  At this point it’s uncertain when Howard will be able to return for the Phillies, but it is evident that he will start the season on the disabled list.

As March approached, Howard’s rehab was going smoothly.  While it was still expected that the slugger would miss Opening Day, it seemed as if he would have a shot at rejoining the Phillies sometime in May.

However, March 1 rolled around and it was announced that the slugger had faced a setback.  Philadelphia wouldn’t initially qualify Howard’s infection as such, but it caused him to stop rehabbing nonetheless.

While Howard had to be shut down as the wound once again healed, it was discovered that the repaired Achilles was still intact.  After the surgery was conducted and Howard was back in a walking boot, Phillies general manager Ruben Amaro Jr. said the team would take things slow with the 2006 NL MVP.

Yesterday, Howard told reporters that he’s been cleared to “do a little bit of modified stuff” such as “riding a bike, doing a little leg motion-type stuff” and just generally trying to do what he can so that he’s able to hit the ground running once he’s out of the walking boot.  Howard said he’s trying to remain positive, but he reminded everyone that there is still “no time limit” on his injury.

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