The Main Event
- May 3, 1979 – Mike Schmidt hits a home run off of LA’s Rick Sutcliffe, starting a streak during which he hit the next seven round-trippers for the Phillies.
- May 3, 2016 – Ryan Howard‘s solo home run accounts for the only scoring in a 1-0 win over St. Louis. he did the same thing earlier in the year, making him the first Phillie to accomplish the feat twice in one season.
Mike Schmidt vs. Ryan Howard: A Comparison of Two Philadelphia Phillies Legends
The Philadelphia Phillies have had a rich history of talent, with two of their most iconic players being Mike Schmidt and Ryan Howard. Both players defined their respective eras, leaving an indelible mark on the franchise, yet their careers were shaped by different circumstances. From their abilities at the plate to their leadership on and off the field, the comparisons and contrasts between Schmidt and Howard offer insight into how the game of baseball has evolved over the decades.
Batting Prowess and Power
When it comes to power hitting, both Schmidt and Howard stand out as two of the most fearsome sluggers in Phillies history. Schmidt, whose career stretched from 1972 to 1989, is considered one of the greatest third basemen to ever play the game. He finished his career with 548 home runs, a feat that at the time of his retirement placed him among the top ten all-time home run leaders. His ability to hit for both average and power was a rare combination, with Schmidt posting a .267 career batting average along with a .380 on-base percentage. He earned three MVP awards, in 1980, 1981, and 1986, and was a consistent force in the middle of the lineup.
Ryan Howard, on the other hand, rose to prominence in the early 2000s with his powerful bat, primarily known for his home runs and RBI. His prime years, particularly from 2005 to 2009, were marked by his consistent ability to hit towering home runs. Howard won the 2006 National League MVP after hitting 58 home runs – still a Phillies single season record – and driving in 149 runs. In just 13 seasons, he clubbed 382 home runs, but his batting average of .258 was considerably lower than Schmidt’s, reflecting a more home run-dependent style. While Schmidt could hit to all fields and was effective in different types of situations, Howard’s approach was primarily focused on power and run production.
Defensive Contributions
Schmidt’s defense at third base was just as noteworthy as his bat. He was a ten-time Gold Glove winner, a testament to his exceptional fielding skills. His ability to make difficult plays look routine and his strong arm made him a standout defender in addition to his offensive contributions. Schmidt’s baseball IQ was also reflected in his defensive positioning and understanding of the game, allowing him to help turn key plays for the Phillies over the years.
Howard, by contrast, played first base, a position that is generally considered less demanding defensively compared to third base. Though Howard was serviceable at first, his defensive reputation was not as strong as Schmidt’s. Howard won one Gold Glove in 2009, but his defense was often a point of criticism during his career. He was prone to errors and had a less fluid fielding style compared to some of the best in the game.
Team Leadership and Influence
Schmidt’s leadership on the field was marked by his consistent presence and his ability to perform in clutch situations. As the team’s star player during the late 1970s and early 1980s, Schmidt often carried the Phillies both offensively and defensively. His leadership was not just about his performance but also about setting a standard for professionalism and focus, especially when the team was pushing for championships. Schmidt played a pivotal role in the Phillies’ 1980 World Series victory, the franchise’s first, where his powerful bat was crucial in securing the title.
Howard, while also a leader in his own right, often led by example in the batter’s box. His leadership was somewhat different, marked by his quiet determination and his ability to anchor the middle of the Phillies’ lineup, especially during the team’s resurgence in the mid-2000s. Howard played a significant role in the team’s 2008 World Series championship, where his power and run production were key contributors. However, Howard’s leadership style did not have the same vocal presence as Schmidt’s; he was more reserved, letting his play do the talking.
Fan Perception and Legacy
Mike Schmidt’s legacy is deeply embedded in the heart of Phillies fans. As a player who delivered not only during regular seasons but also in the postseason, Schmidt earned a reputation as a true all-time great. His no-nonsense approach, combined with his success, earned him the respect of fans across baseball. Schmidt’s connection to the city of Philadelphia is strong, and he is widely regarded as the greatest Phillie of all time. Of course, Schmidt did have his shortcomings among the fan base. Sometimes, his style of play almost made it seem like he was careless. His personality could come across sometimes as arrogant and other times as aloof.
In contrast, Ryan Howard was beloved for his towering home runs and his role in the Phillies’ most successful stretch in recent memory. Howard was the face of the team during the 2007-2011 period, a time when the Phillies were perennial contenders. Although injuries derailed the tail end of Howard’s career, his contributions during the team’s championship run cannot be overstated. Fans admired his raw power and his knack for coming through in clutch moments, but his lower batting average and strikeout-heavy style left some to question his overall impact in comparison to Schmidt’s more balanced game. As for personality, Howard was beloved. He had a much more endearing demeanor than did Schmidt and a constant smile that lit up the field, making him one of the most beloved Phillies of all-time.
Conclusion
Both Mike Schmidt and Ryan Howard were incredibly talented players, but their careers unfolded in different baseball eras, with different styles and levels of success. Schmidt’s complete game as a hitter and defender makes him one of the greatest third basemen in history, while Howard’s raw power and ability to drive in runs helped define the Phillies during the 2000s. Their leadership, although different, both played crucial roles in their teams’ success, and each left an enduring legacy in Philadelphia. Schmidt may be remembered as the gold standard for all Phillies players, but Howard’s contributions in the 2008 World Series will forever place him in the hearts of Phillies fans.
Philadelphia Baseball Events for May 3
- May 3, 1899 – Tom O’Brien of the New York Giants receives perhaps the first intentional walk in major league history. In the 8th inning, with runners on second and third base with one out, Ed Delahanty of the Philadelphia Phillies tells teammate pitcher Jack Fifield to walk O’Brien, who has hit well all day. Then next batter, Fred Hartman, hits into a double play.
- May 3, 1941 – Hank Gornicki of the St. Louis Cardinals pitches a one-hitter in his major league debut, beating the Philadelphia Phillies, 6 – 0. Stan Benjamin‘s single is the lone hit. For the Cardinals, it is their eighth victory in a row.
- May 3, 1947 – Traded Ron Northey to St. Louis for Harry Walker and Freddy Schmidt. Northey played for the Phillies from 1942-1944 before missing the 1945 season for military service. He returned in 1946 and played for the Phillies until being dealt to St. Louis. He returned to the Phillies in 1957 after being released by the White Sox and signing with the Phillies for the rest of the season to end his career. Walker played with the 1947 and 1948 Phillies, hitting .339 in his two seasons. Why I Love Baseball, But Not Bingo
- May 3, 1974 – Traded left-hander Mike Wallace to the NY Yankees for Ken Wright. Wallace was drafted by the Phillies in the fourth round of the 1969 Draft and played his first two seasons with the Phillies in 1973 and up until the trade in 1974. Wright started his career with the Royals before making his way to the Yankees prior to the ’74 season. He never pitched in the majors after the deal.
- May 3, 1994 – In his major-league debut, Andy Carter hit two of the first three batters he faced and was ejected.
- May 3, 2008 – Signed free agent left-hander Les Walrond. He pitched in six games with the 2008 Phillies with a 6.10 ERA.
Sign up for a free subscription and get our weekly newsletter delivered to your inbox. Or, sign up for a paid subscription ($5 per month/$45 per year) and get deeper coverage of the Phillies and their minor league affiliates.
Philadelphia Baseball Birthdays for May 3
- Eppa Rixey (born 1891) – A Hall of Fame left-hander who had a 21-year MLB career with the Phillies (eight seasons) and Cincinnati (13 seasons). Rixey missed the 1918 season to serve in the military. In his career, he made 554 starts and 138 relief appearances with a record of 266-251, 3.15. Went 87-103, 2.83 with the Phillies.
- Ken Silvestri (born 1916) – Played eight seasons with the White Sox, Yankees, and Phillies as a switch-hitting catcher. Missed the 1942-1946 seasons to serve in the military. In his three seasons with the Phillies, he played in just 19 games and hit .212.
- Ben Revere (born 1988) – Left-hand hitting outfielder who was acquired from Minnesota following the 2012 season for pitchers Trevor May and Vance Worley. In two-plus seasons with the Phillies, Revere led the National League with 184 hits in 2014. Sent to Toronto at the 2015 trade deadline for Alberto Tirado and Jimmy Cordero.
Please scroll down to comment on this story or to give it a rating. We appreciate your feedback!
Disclaimer: Some of the products featured or linked on this website may generate income for Philly Baseball News through affiliate commissions, sponsorships, or direct sales. We only promote items we believe in, but please assume that PBN may earn a cut from qualifying purchases that you make using a link on this site.
© 2026 LV Sports Media. All rights reserved.
