Philadelphia Phillies: 50 greatest players of all-time

Brad Lidge cemented his legacy in Philadelphia with one pitch, but his overall career warrants appreciation, despite a lack of longevity.

Pat Gillick acquired Lidge from the Houston Astros in November 2007, along with Eric Bruntlett for Michael Bourn, Geoff Geary and minor leaguer Mike Costanzo. In adding Lidge, the Phillies found the dominant closer they lacked with Brett Myers and Tom Gordon getting the bulk of the workload.

Lidge didn’t allow an earned run until May 13 and went 41-41 in save opportunities, helping clinch the final out of the regular season by rolling a ground ball for a double play.

The playoffs were no different for Lidge, who stayed perfect going 7-7 with a 0.96 ERA against the Milwaukee Brewers, the Los Angeles Dodgers and the Tampa Bay Rays. He famously struck out Eric Hinske for the final out of the World Series to clinch Philadelphia’s first championship in two decades.

Unfortunately, Lidge’s career didn’t carry as well into the following seasons, mostly due to injuries. His ERA in 2009 went to 7.21 and he was 0-8 on the season, though he did save 31 games.

Over the next two seasons, Lidge was limited to 75 games and managed just one save in 2011.

Since leaving Philadelphia, Lidge has remained close with the team, often joining the coaching staff in spring training or midseason as a special instructor. He’s a potential Wall of Fame candidate thanks to his outstanding 2008 season.