In what is starting to become a common occurrence in Philadelphia, closer Brad Lidge has once again been sent to the 15 day disabled list for a sore elbow.
MRIs showed no structural damage, but the Phillies decided to shelve Lidge for a few weeks after watching him throw.
WIth the move, the closer’s spot falls to Jose Contreras, someone who had never closed out a game until this past week. Contreras could be looked at as the 3rd option to close, after Lidge and Ryan Madson, who’s on the DL after breaking his toe kicking a chair.
Even without their closer, the Phillies have the best record in the National League at 22-13 and they have a 3 game lead over the Washington Nationals (yes, those Washington Nationals) in the NL East. WIth Jimmy Rollins expected back shortly, the team will receive a nice little offensive boost.
The problems with the bullpen are starting to mount however, and getting Lidge back healthy would be a tremendous addition to the bullpen. The Phillies have weathered the storm so far, but it’s only May. A lot of things can happen between now and October.
