NEW YORK -- Word from Houston is that RHP Brad Lidge has been removed from the Astros' closer role after posting a 16.20 ERA in his first two appearances.Hmm.
Lidge, 30, emerged as an elite closer in 2004, posting a 1.90 ERA and 29 saves. The following season, he had a 2.29 ERA and 42 saves. But, in the 2005 NLCS, he allowed a home run to Albert Pujols (pictured) that hasn't landed yet, and he hasn't been the same pitcher since.
Still, you have to wonder if Pat Gillick ought to try to trade for him. After dealing speedy Willy Taveras to the Rockies, the Astros' center fielder is Chris Burke. Perhaps the Phils could sell them on Aaron Rowand, or even prospect Michael Bourn, a Houston native. Regardless, at this point, you have to think Lidge is a risk worth taking to improve the Phillies' battered bullpen. Maybe a change of scenery is exactly what Lidge needs, and we all know the Phillies need all the relief help they can get.
Just a thought.
Also, a programming reminder: Ryan Howard will be on "The Late Show With David Letterman" tonight. I wonder if Dave will ask him about this quote from Mets manager Willie Randolph about why he didn't walk Howard in the sixth inning yesterday: "It's not like he's Barry Bonds."
Either way, it should be entertaining.
5 comments:
I've been thinking about Lidge since he lost the closer's role last season. It can't hurt if you give up Rowand and maybe a prospect to get Lidge. I'd do it. If Rowand didn't run face first into that wall last year, everyone would be killing him right now. He brings absolutely nothing to the table offensively and he has maybe the worst arm of any CF in the majors. I'd trade for Lidge and put Bourn in RF everyday. It's still early but it is getting close to desperation time.
Lidge is the number one whipping boy here in Houston. He still has the velocity but his fastball is totally straight and batters are now staying off his nasty slider because he can't throw it for strikes. He is not hitting the corners as well and getting creamed as a result. That said as a diehard Phillies fan I would absolutely give the kid a try. Low risk, high high reward with this kid. Maybe you can get him on the cheap or maybe it would just take Jon Lieber, their back end of the rotation is weak. The Astros love Chris Burke and have an outstanding young outfielder Hunter Pence on the verge of coming up so an outfielder might not interest them.
Chris in Houston
Hey, Chris: Thanks for chiming in with some perspective from Houston. I think the Astros would have more interest in Bourn than Rowand, especially since Rowand will be a free agent after the season. Also, once the Astros come to the realization that Roger Clemens isn't coming back to Houston (maybe New York or Boston, but not Houston), they may have more interest in Lieber.
Speaking of Houston, have you eaten at Pappasitos? It's my favorite Mexican restaurant there.
Pappasitos is really nice! You have good taste there. Yeah I work the morning drivetime sports talk show here in Houston and the Lidge hater calls are rampant every morning here. It's like he was Wild Thing or something.
Just want to give ya props this is by far the best Phillies blog I have read so far! Keep up the good work!
Chris in Houston
Thanks for the kind words, Chris. Glad I can help you follow the Phils from Houston. I'm looking forward to getting back there in July for some enchiladas at Pappasitos! Thanks for reading!
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