Ryan Howard has officially been cleared to begin workouts without a walking boot. Danny Knobler of CBSSports.com writes that the Phillies are "hopeful" that Ryan Howard will be able to play in early-May.

Meanwhile, Placido Polanco took batting practice today for the first time since spraining his left ring finger on Saturday and Juan Pierre went 0-for-3 and was caught stealing for the third time in five attempts Thursday.

 

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