PHILADELPHIA -- Ryan Howard's Major League introduction came in a common way on Sept. 1, 2004: with a called strike three on the inside corner. The powerful first baseman rebounded well, and he capped an amazing 2005 season on Monday by capturing National League Rookie of the Year honors. He shares the day with Oakland closer Huston Street, who was named the American League's top newcomer. Howard, who turns 26 next week, garnered 19 of 32 first-place votes from among ballots cast by two writers in each NL city. He received three seconds and a third for a total of 109 points, based on the 5-3-1 tabulation system. That outdistanced Astros outfielder Willy Taveras, who received seven first-place votes and totaled 78 points. Braves outfielder Jeff Francoeur took third with 60 points, including two first-place votes. Pirates left-hander Zach Duke received three first-place votes, with Colorado's Garrett Atkins getting the other. The left-handed Howard batted .288 and drove in 63 runs in 88 games and 312 at-bats, including 11 homers and 27 RBIs in September/October, while the Phillies were battling Houston in the National League Wild Card race. He's the fourth Phillies player to win the honor, and the first since Scott Rolen in 1997. Howard replaced Jim Thome at first base and led all first-year players in the Majors in homers, despite not taking over full-time until July. Among his long balls were two game-winning grand slams. Howard joins an impressive list of previous NL Rookie of the Year winners, including Albert Pujols (2001), Mike Piazza (1993), Jeff Bagwell (1991), Johnny Bench (1968), Tom Seaver (1967), Willie McCovey (1959), Frank Robinson (1956) and Willie Mays (1951).
Francoeur didn't win it because he only played half a season.If he played the whole season,he would of won it.
