The Philadelphia Phillies plan to bench Ryan Howard over the next few days in the wake of the worst statistical month in franchise history.

Howard, who will be replaced by Tommy Joseph, is hitting .154 with 53 strikeouts and just 22 hits.

The Phillies are giving Howard a break to "clear his head" but Pete Mackanin hinted that the change could become more long-term.

Howard, 36, is earning $25 million in the final season of a five-year, $125 million contract, not including a $10 million buyout on a $23 million option for 2017.