Howard on 'Storytime with Phillie Phanatic'

You know it’s a big deal when the Big Piece steps up to the plate -- even virtually.

On Wednesday night, former Phillies slugger and World Champion Ryan Howard, along with his wife Krystle and daughters Ariana, Alexandria and Amara, were this week's celebrity readers during “Storytime with the Phillie Phanatic” presented by Nemours Children’s Health, on the @philliephanatic Instagram account.

The live, virtual event featured the Howard family reading “The Phillie Phanatic’s Hero” from the Phanatic Book Series, as baseball’s favorite mascot put his antics on full display simultaneously on a split-screen. The interactive fun read was geared towards fans of all ages, and was centered on the Phillie Phanatic’s homework project that required him to write about his favorite hero.

Like the Phanatic, Ryan and Krystle Howard are huge advocates for reading. Together, they have co-authored a series of “Little Rhino” children’s books.

To be part of “Storytime with the Phillie Phanatic,” fans should follow @philliephanatic on Instagram. Past celebrity readers have featured Phillies Manager Joe Girardi and his wife, Kim, as well as Bryce Harper. Click here to watch past “Storytime with the Phillie Phanatic” videos.