We heard the talk and innuendos all winter long. He's washed up, he's not healthy, he's lost confidence, he's haunted by past failures, He's lost zip on his fastball. Of course, once he was dealt to the Phillies, the fans merely said, "he sucks". But so far, he's looked anything but washed up. He is Brad Lidge, and so far this season, he's been lights out and everything the Phillies hoped he'd be for their team.

Lidge has given up 7 hits and he's struck out 13 hitters in 14 innings. He's 7 for 7 in save situations pitching in a hitter's ball park. Just as important: he's won over the Phiilie fans, who now think Lidge doesn't suck. Lidge has looked every bit as dominating as he did in his best days with the Astros. It's safe to say that the Phillies did well acquiring Lidge to stabalize the bullpen. Not only has he closed games, but his effectiveness has removed any speculation that the Phillies would move Bret Myers back into the closers role. His effectiveness has helped keep Myers where he is most needed...in the rotation.

Speaking of closers, while teams have been busy shuffling their bullpens and closers, it should be noted that aside from Lidge, old reliable Mariano Rivera has been lights out as well this season. And joining he and Lidge among the league leaders is Billy Wagner, who has been more un-hittable than any closer in baseball. All three sport a 0.00 ERA, but Wagner has allowed exactly 3 hits and just 2 walks in 12 innings. It wasn't long ago that all three were hearing whispers that their best days were behind them. Try telling that to them today.



Court Adjourned!