Howard hurt his left ankle scrambling back to second base during Sunday's game at Washington. He left the ballpark on crutches, but was optimistic that he wouldn't go on the disabled list.
Howard, the 2006 NL MVP, is hitting .292 with 23 home runs and 81 RBIs. The Phillies already are missing All-Star second baseman Chase Utley and center fielder Shane Victorino because of injuries.
