2008 may have been the dream season to end all dream seasons for Brad Lidge, but 2009 is rapidly developing into a nightmare of epic proportions. Lidge blew two more saves, he's got six overall, in Los Angeles over the weekend, which brought his ERA to an unsightly 7.27 for the season. It will stay put for a while because Lidge was placed on the 15-day disabled list with a sprained right knee on Tuesday.
Lidge has had two surgeries on the knee in the past, and missed time with inflammation in April. He had an MRI and a cortisone shot but his pain and poor performances continued, culminating with today's decision.
Fortunately the Phillies are well stocked with relievers who can pick up the slack in Lidge's absence. Ryan Madson will likely handle the closing duties while Lidge is on the shelf, with Clay Condrey sliding into Madson's set-up role. Each of them has done standout work this season, and the change in roles shouldn't create much difficulty for the pitchers.
It does, however, put some pressure on the Phillies' rotation to start turning in more consistent performances. As Madson and Condrey slide into higher leverage spots, that will leave more innings for Chad Durbin, Scott Eyre and the recently activated J.C. Romero. All are good relievers, but an increased workload could be met with diminished effectiveness, especially if Lidge is out of the bullpen for a long time.
The Phillies called up veteran catcher Paul Bako to take Lidge's spot on the roster. He's expected to be in uniform for Tuesday night's game at Citi Field against the Mets.
For a fantasy spin on Lidge's injury, check out Knox Bardeen's take here.
