Lidge placed on DL, Madson to Close

The Philadelphia Phillies placed closer Brad Lidge on the disabled list today with a sprained right knee. Lidge has blown save chances in each of his last two outings, and has struggled throughout the season. Lidge is currently 0-3 with 13 Saves, 6 Blown Saves, a 7.27 ERA, and a 1.81 WHIP. The Phillies will monitor Lidge's progress over the next week in hopes that his knee improves. The injury is not considered serious, so Lidge should be able to return once he's eligible to come off the DL. Ryan Madson, is next in line for saves in Philadelphia. Madson is having a terrific season (2.22 ERA, 1.06 WHIP, 31 K's in 28 innings pitched) and is widely available ( 80% of Yahoo Leagues and more than 90% of ESPN leagues). Madson's peripheral numbers, plus short term save potential, make him a must add while Lidge is on the shelf.

Brad Lidge Off To Shakey Start As Expected

After nearly three weeks of baseball we really haven't seen the 2008 Brad Lidge, but closer to the 2007 Lidge. So far this season, Lidge has appeared in 9 games and five save chances. While he has only blown 1 save, several of the saves have been touch-and-go. His last appearance Saturday night resulted in a save, but he walked the bases loaded in doing it.

So far Lidge has a 7.27 ERA, but even more important is his 1.85 WHIP. That is just not going to cut it for a dominating closer. We were suspect on Lidge coming in because of his past breakdowns and this year we are no different. 11 hits and 5 walks in less then nine innings is showing us the Lidge we expected.

I recommend trading Lidge ASAP. He could come out of this slump and be lights out, but I'd rather not worry about that and get a good deal for him now. If he does implode, you won't be able to move him.