Howard offers 'tidbits' to young teammates

CLEARWATER, Fla. - For five minutes Wednesday morning, the $125 million former superstar talked pitching with the lefthanded reliever picked in the Rule 5 draft. You'll face guys who you grew up watching, Ryan Howard told Daniel Stumpf, and you cannot be overwhelmed by that.

Stumpf, 25, smiled.

"Yeah," he said to Howard, "you were one of those guys."

In general, Howard believes in the power of positivity. It is a principle he has used as a crutch through injuries and ineffectiveness. It is something, he said, that must be instilled in a Phillies clubhouse teeming with young players.

And, while Howard expressed his displeasure at the idea of again being a platoon player in 2016, he has followed through on his promise to be a resource for his teammates. It may not compensate for his declining performance, but it is the sort of attitude the Phillies crave from the few veterans on their roster.

Stumpf pitched to Howard on Tuesday during a live batting practice session, and he relayed some suggestions the next morning. Don't be scared, Howard told Stumpf, to come at lefties from both sides of the plate. Howard mimicked Stumpf's slider motion with his arm.

"You have good stuff," Howard said.

It can be awkward for a veteran in his final days with a team that is transitioning to a new era.

"For me," Howard said, "it's just going out there and playing the right way."

He'll offer "little tidbits" where he sees fit.

"Any feedback is great," Stumpf said. "Feedback from him is awesome."