If you were one of the many Astros fans who booed Brad Lidge you probably feel a little conflicted. I'm sure you've already asked yourself, was he really that bad? Did we kill his confidence? Did we force Drayton to run him out of town?
You can second guess until the cows come home but it won't change a thing. Bradley Thomas Lidge is a Phillie , and he will be until 2011.

Over the weekend Lidge was selected for the all-star team, but he also signed a 37.5 million dollar contract extension. Since going to Philadelphia, Lidge has been almost perfect. His 0.97 ERA and 19 saves prove he's still got it, and will have it for awhile because he's only 31 years old .
Remember when he converted 29 of 33 save opportunities for the Astros with a 1.90 ERA in 2004. Well, all it took was a change of scenery for him to find himself.

Meanwhile, the jury is still out on Michael Bourn, Geoff Geary, and mike Costanzo. Those are the 3 guys the Astros got in the Lidge deal, and so far this hasn't been one of those win, win, situations. Hey I thought a change of scenery would be great for Brad, I was just hoping it would workout for the Astros also. There is still time. Michael Bourn has a wealth of potential , and Geoff Geary has pitched well at times so the deal can still workout for the Astros. Its just when you see the Astros losing 7 of 8 games , you can help but think Lidge could help. No knock on Jose Valverde because he's been terrific, but you can never have too many arms in the bullpen.

I actually ran into Brad earlier this year when the Astros were hosting the Phillies. It really seemed bitter sweet because you could tell he missed being here. When he finally walked away heading to the visitors clubhouse I couldn't help but think the Astros will miss him also.

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