PHILADELPHIA - Ryan Howard struck out for the 196th time Thursday to set the single-season major league record.
In the third inning of Philadelphia’s game against Atlanta, Howard swung at and missed a down-and-away splitter from John Smoltz for strike three.
The Phillies’ first baseman broke the mark established in 2004 by Adam Dunn of the Cincinnati Reds.
Last season’s NL MVP, Howard hit his 44th homer in the first inning, a two-run shot that gave him 130 RBIs.
SportsTalk: Albert Pujols signs with the Angels and Prince Fielder joins the Tigers. Which team is better now?
DeMarco: Plug in a well-heeled ownership group and negotiate one of those mega-bucks TV deals that are going around, and the Dodgers could become the west coast version of the New York Yankees or Boston Red Sox.
Slideshow |
The Week in Sports Pictures The Giants on top of the football world, getting ready for the London Olympics and more. more photos |
HardballTalk headlines |
Interactive |
Slideshow |
Unbreakable records in baseball A look at the most unbreakable records in baseball including Nolan Ryan's seven no-hitters. |
Slideshow |
The top tools of baseball You hear a lot about the tools of baseball, but who are the best hitters, fielders and pitchers? We break it down. more photos |