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Howard improving, could return to Phils soon

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By Todd Zolecki / MLB.com

06/22/09 12:13 PM ET

Ryan Howard, hospitalized twice over the weekend with flu symptoms, has been diagnosed with acute sinusitis, and could rejoin the Phillies lineup as early as tomorrow night.

According to a statement by the club, the first baseman's fever -- reportedly as high as 104 degrees at the time of his first hospitalization on Friday night -- is gone, and he will spend the day Monday resting at home.

If Howard feels better, according to the Phillies, he would rejoin the club Tuesday in Tampa Bay. The Phillies are are hopeful he will be able to play in Tuesday's game.

Dr. Marc Harwood saw Howard Monday and made the prognosis after reviewing results of his recent tests and evaluating his condition.

Todd Zolecki is a reporter for MLB.com. This story was not subject to the approval of Major League Baseball or its clubs.