Ryan Howard (knee) is not expected to return this season. Howard began baseball activities Thursday, but the Phillies' main concern is getting their first baseman healthy for the start of next season as he works his way back from knee surgery. "Counterproductive," interim manager Ryne Sandberg said of the prospect of Howard returning this season. "At this point, counterproductive. We're talking about his health, getting healthy and getting strong, and having the offseason ahead of him. You don't want any fallbacks or anything. I think until he gets into baseball shape, which is not going to happen between now and the middle of September or the end of September ... we'll have him get in baseball shape."