Salary arbitration hearings are set to begin on Monday, but the Phillies are hopeful that they'll be able to avoid a hearing with slugger Ryan Howard. Howard's hearing date is unknown, but reports indicate that it'll take place at some point next week. The first baseman is seeking $18 million per year, while the Phillies have offered $10 million annually. "We're still hopeful of avoiding [a hearing]," Phils general manager Ruben Amaro Jr. said. "Our goal remains the same - get an equitable deal done."