Howard was one of the highest drafted players to play for the Bells as of late. The Philadelphia Phillies picked him up in the second round of the 2017 MLB Draft, 45th overall. Howard skipped over the traditional "Rookie Ball" level and went to the Phillies Class A Short Season affiliate, the Williamsport Crosscutters. Howard went 1-1 on the season, starting all nine games he appeared in. Howard also slung 40 strikeouts over the 28.1 innings he pitched in the 2017 New York-Penn League, finishing the season with an ERA of 4.45. Howard is currently #20 on the Phillies Top 30 prospect list and is still active in the organization.