>and Howard proceeded to produce an .858 OPS in the second
>half after posting an .859 OPS in the first half. So it's
>quite likely that Howard's problems — especially his declining
>power and walks — are caused by something other than the
>calendar.

You see, that was because Philly won the NL East comfortably. In 2008 they had to catch the Mets and he hit out of his mind. He's clearly just waiting for when the games count more. If Atlanta stays about 5 games out, he might not do it. He chooses when to hit well and if he doesn't really need to, he'll just continue on doing what he's been doing.