Spencer Howard spent a large portion of this season in the big leagues, but his time with Philadelphia Phillies so far in 2021 was hardly an extended look.
The 24-year-old made nine appearances — including five starts — in the majors, yet never threw more than four innings in a game. A combination of pitch count restrictions, an inconsistent role and ineffectiveness as he threw deeper into games forced him into pitching only short outings.
But that could be changing soon as Howard, now back in the minors leagues for the second time this year, looks to build the stamina and workload of a regular starter.