"The worst fears of Ryan Howard and the Phillies have come to pass.

According to the team, Howard's MRI revealed a rupture of his left Achilles tendon. However, because of the swelling in left ankle, Howard cannot have surgery until it dissipates. As a result, the Phillies do not know when the slugger will be ready for the season.

Typically, a ruptured Achilles takes six months of recovery time. Considering the skills and training needed to play baseball, Howard could miss between six-to-nine months from the time of surgery."