MIAMI - Ryan Howard's major league service time reached 10 years Saturday, ensuring the longtime Phillies first baseman the same 10-and-5 no-trade rights afforded to second baseman Chase Utley.
While an achievement in itself, the significance of Howard's reaching 10 years in the majors, at least the last five with the same team, probably ends there. It is not believed his no-trade rights would be an obstacle to a deal if a trade partner was found, which is still a long shot considering his albatross of a contract and lack of productivity.
Howard entered the season owed $60 million over the next two years, abd through 79 at-bats he is hitting just .