Ranking the Top 5 greatest relief pitchers in Phillies franchise history

No. 2: Brad Lidge

“Swing and a miss, struck him out!”

Phillies fans will forever hear Harry Kalas’ words and see Brad Lidge striking out Tampa Bay Rays pinch hitter Eric Hinske and dropping to his knees with elation. The 2008 season was magical for the Phillies and Brad Lidge in particular. That season, he went an astonishing 48 for 48 in save opportunities, had an ERA of 1.95, was an All-Star, and received votes for both MVP and the Cy Young Award.

In total, Lidge spent four seasons with the Phillies from 2008 to 2011, recording a 3.73 ERA, a 3.72 FIP, and a 1.430 WHIP over 214 games. He recorded 100 saves, which puts him fifth on the Phillies all-time saves list. Spending the first six years of his career in Houston and going to the Washington Nationals for one year after his Phillies stint, Lidge would end his career with 225 saves, the 44th most in the history of Major League Baseball.

The right-handed closer was a part of one of the most successful eras in Phillies baseball history. The teams he was on won the division each year, appeared in two World Series while winning the one in 2008, and went a total of 384-264.

Winning means a lot to the people of Philadelphia, and the fans hold a special place in their hearts for Lidge. After the recent failures in the closer role the franchise has had, witnessing a player be perfect for the entirety of a season is special. It's even more special when the last save is for a World Series title.

Lidge easily earns his way to No. 2 on the all-time greatest relievers list in Phillies history.