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That Balls Outta Here

Top 10 relievers in Philadelphia Phillies franchise history

By Kerry Kauffman

PHILADELPHIA - OCTOBER 29: Catcher Carlos Ruiz #51 and Brad Lidge #54 of the Philadelphia Phillies celebrate after recording the final out of their 4-3 win to win the World Series against the Tampa Bay Rays during the continuation of game five of the 2008 MLB World Series on October 29, 2008 at Citizens Bank Park in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Jeff Zelevansky/Getty Images)
PHILADELPHIA - OCTOBER 29: Catcher Carlos Ruiz #51 and Brad Lidge #54 of the Philadelphia Phillies celebrate after recording the final out of their 4-3 win to win the World Series against the Tampa Bay Rays during the continuation of game five of the 2008 MLB World Series on October 29, 2008 at Citizens Bank Park in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Jeff Zelevansky/Getty Images) /
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PHILADELPHIA, PA – AUGST 1: Former closer Brad Lidge of the Philadelphia Phillies is congratulated by catcher Carlos Ruiz /

2- Brad Lidge (2008-2011)

Lidge makes this list solely on what he did in 2008, but what a remarkable season that was. He was perfect 48-for-48 in save opportunities, including the post season. He had a 1.95 ERA and averaged 11.9 strikeouts per nine innings during the regular season. Lidge saved 31 in 2009, but his ERA skyrocketed. While pitching in 50 games in 2010, Lidge saved 27 with an ERA of 2.96. Injuries limited Lidge to 25 games in 2011 and was out of baseball following a brief stint with the Nationals in 2012. He will be forever remembered for his 2008 season, ranking him second on this list.

More from That Balls Outta Here

1- Tug McGraw (1975-1984)

Due to the era in which he pitched, McGraw’s overall numbers wont impress those who look at save totals as deciding factor in a reliever’s effectiveness. However, McGraw was the key component on the mound bringing the Phillies their first World Series Championship in franchise history. McGraw arguably had his best season in 1980, posting a 1.46 ERA and allowed only 62 hits in 92 1/3 innings. His strikeout of Willie Wilson to end the 1980 World Series may be the top moment in franchise history.

McGraw had five seasons with an ERA under three, was an All-Star in 1975 and is second in franchise history in relief appearances.

Next: Phillies rumor: Carlos Ruiz intends to play in 2018

Out of the hundreds of relievers to have pitched for the Phillies, these were the best.

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