After batting .313 with 58 homeruns in 2006, Ryan Howard entered the 2007 season with high expectations.  To say he started the season disappointing is a bit of understatement. In fact, after batting just .213 with 3 HRs in April many owners didn't hesitate to unload the Philly slugger.  The Phillies didn't give up on him though. Instead, they placed him on the DL to let a quad strain that plagued him rest. It was just what the doctor ordered too, upon returning in May Howard homered in 11 of his first 14 games.

A final look at the '07 numbers reveals some pros and some cons. He did finish with 47 homeruns and 136 RBIs. However, his .268 batting average was less than desireable and only Adam Dunn strikes out more than this guy (199 strikeouts in '07).

The Phillies did add some offense to their line-up by signing free agents OF Geoff Jenkins and 3B Pedro Feliz, but their line-up still lacks consistency from top to bottom. Chase Utley will likely hit third, in front of Howard, with Pat Burrell hitting behind the slugger in the five-hole. It's not terrible, but Burrell doesn't provide the best protection and that should lead to plenty of walks again this year for Howard.

Looking at his three-year average - .291, 42 HRs, 116 RBI's - keeps Howard No. 2 on in my first base rankings and should be good enough to keep him as first round selection in most formats, with an increase in value in leagues where strikeouts don't count against hitters.