“What If” The Platoon Works at First Base?

Ryan Howard seen here in happier times. Photo by Ian Riccaboni Starting this Tuesday and continuing each Tuesday, Ian Riccaboni will pose, and attempt to answer, an outside the box question that may effect the Phillies’ 2012 season.The Big Piece was last seen by many Phils fans writhing in pain a few feet up the first base line watching the eventual World Series-winning Cardinals celebrate their first round win. On December 2, Howard was spotted at City Hall, donating $1.2 million and Adidas merchandise to Philadelphia schools struggling with recent budget cuts. The hobbling slugger was now off crutches but remained mute regarding his injury at the press conference. Ruben Amaro did give some clues to his return: Bob Brookover reported Amaro thinks Howard may return by May if initial weight-baring activities are successful.Not a lot of ink has been given to who may start on Opening Day versus the Pirates at first base. With Paul Maholm likely gone, veteran Erik Bedard, the Pirat...