NBCPhiladelphia sports reporter John Clark will be giving fans the insight from Phillies Spring Training in Clearwater.

Ryan Howard has gotten hungrier than ever for a championship, even while his waistline decreased and his wallet got fatter.

Last spring after he won a World Series and signed a fat new contract, the prolific slugger showed up 20 pounds lighter. And, he had become much better defensively through hard work during the off-season.

The result -- he and his team came two games short of another championship.

This off-season Howard worked even harder, losing more weight and getting stronger. And he's still not at his goal.

Howard epitomizes what his team is all about. Some teams sit on their success -- these Phillies want more and will do what it takes to get there.

That is exactly why this team has what it takes to be the first National League team in more than 60 years to make it to three straight World Series.

The Phillies use last year as motivation but they have turned the page, said Howard.

The big first baseman turning the page meant changing his diet, getting stronger and being healthier.

Phils manager Charlie Manuel also lost like his big slugger. Charlie lost weight and gained health by changing his diet and lifestyle.

Let's see if all that losing translates to winning on the field this season. The journey begins Wednesday when the Phillies take on Florida State in their preseason opener.

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