From Ben Adamson, Missouri State Athletics www.missouristatebears.com
Former Missouri State baseball player and current Philadelphia Phillies first baseman Ryan Howard has chosen MSU to receive $10,000 from the Major League Baseball Players Trust on his behalf as the winner of the 2006 Players Choice Awards for Player of the Year and Outstanding Player. Each year, the MLB Players Trust makes a donation to one or more charities of the winner’s choice.
Howard won the National League Most Valuable Player award in 2006 after slugging a Phillies record 58 home runs and totaling 149 RBIs. That award came on the heels of Howard winning the Century 21 Home Run Derby title at the 2006 All-Star game and the 2005 N.L. Rookie of the Year.
"We are really appreciative of Ryan and his generosity," MSU baseball head coach Keith Guttin said. "He had the opportunity to donate to the organization of his choice and we appreciate his loyalty to Missouri State."
Howard, who played at MSU from 1999-2001, finished his career fifth in school history with 50 home runs and fourth with 183 RBIs.
