Rupert Murdoch Urged Chris Christie to Run for President

Plus: Ryan Howard could play on Friday, a man drowns in a cop's pool, the Penn Foundation gives $15M to city schools, and more of what Philly is buzzing about today.

Rupert Murdoch Likes Chris Christie. Media mogul Rupert Murdoch—and Roger Ailes, chairman of Fox News—reportedly urged New Jersey Governor Chris Christie to run for president. [New York Times]

Howard’s Return Imminent. Just a little more than a week after Chase Utley returned to the Phillies—and put a ball in the seats in his first at-bat—it looks like Ryan Howard is ready to come back to the Bigs. The Big Piece is “likely” to rejoin the team tonight to take on the Atlanta Braves. [Daily News]

Man Drowns in Cop’s Pool. Authorities were called to the house of an off-duty Philadelphia Police officer late Thursday night after it appeared as though a man drowned in the officer’s pool. Police don’t suspect foul play, but are investigating to determine if alcohol was a factor in the incident. [Philly.com]

Penn Foundation Gives $15M to Schools. The William Penn Foundation has donated $15 million to Philly’s public, private and charter schools through the Philadelphia School Partnership, which will doll out grants this month and more awards by the end of the year. the donation helps the Philadelphia School Partnership move closer to its goal of raising $100 million in five years to expedite educational reform. [Inquirer]

Papelbon Blows a Save. The Phils lost to the Mets by a score of 6-5 after Jonathan Papelbon blew a save opportunity in the bottom of the ninth. [Phillies]

Dog Set on Fire. Just over a week after a female pit bull puppy was set on fire and left to die on Gray Street, a four-month-old male puppy was found on fire in the city’s West Oak Lane section. The male puppy—named Hercules by the SPCA staff—should survive the ordeal, but i listed in serious condition. [NBC Philadelphia]