Trailing 6-5 heading into the ninth against Blue Jays closer Frank Francisco, Placido Polanco led off with a walk and Chase Utley followed with a fly to left that Juan Rivera misplayed into a double, putting runners at second and third. Howard followed with a two-run single to center, giving Francisco (1-4) his fourth blown save in 13 chances.
Shane Victorino flied out and Ben Francisco doubled Howard to third before Marc Rzepczynski came on for Frank Francisco and ended the inning without further damage.
Danys Baez (2-3) pitched one inning of relief for the win, and Antonio Bastardo closed it out for his fourth save in as many chances.