Phillies activate Ryan Howard

Atlanta -- The Philadelphia Phillies Friday activated first baseman Ryan Howard from the 15-day disabled list.

The National League's reigning MVP went to the DL May 13 with a strained left quadriceps. He has completed a two-game rehabilitation assignment for Class A Lakewood, Fla., where he went 2-for-6 with a double, home run, four RBI and two walks.

He was a designated hitter in one game, and played first base in the other.

Philadelphia restored Howard to its 25-man roster before Friday night's contest against the Braves in Atlanta.

The 26-year-old Howard is batting .204 with six home runs and 23 RBI in 98 at-bats with the Phillies this season.

He hit a pinch grand slam at Arizona May 9.

To make roster room for Howard, catcher Chris Coste was optioned to Double-A Reading.

The team also purchased the contract of left-hander Mike Zagurski from Reading, and sent closer Brett Myers (shoulder) to the DL.

Copyright 2007 by United Press International.