Brad Lidge Nearing Rehab Assignment
By Editorial Staff
Brad Lidge’s progress has given the Phillies something else to celebrate this holiday weekend. Philadelphia’s reliever is nearly set to begin his rehab assignment.
The right hander threw a successful bullpen Wednesday and will test his shoulder again today. If all goes well Lidge could begin his stint in the minors as early as Monday.
Lidge has not pitched for the Phillies in 2011 because of issues with his shoulder and elbow. The 34 year old says that he is no longer experiencing discomfort, and that all that is left to do is to rebuild his arm strength.
"“I’d like to be back sometime between the all-star break and the end of July,” he said. “But I’ve never really been out this long, so I don’t know how long it’s going to take to build up. If I’m back before the end of July that still gives me two good months of ball in the regular season.”"
Philadelphia is also without late inning relievers Ryan Madson and Jose Contreras. Contreras has been out since June 19th with a forearm strain, and a right hand contusion sidelined Madson earlier this week.
Currently the team has handed late inning duties to youngsters Antonio Bastardo and Michael Stutes. Each has pitched well this season, but they have only combined for 3 saves and 14 holds over their short careers.
For more on the Phillies, be sure to check out That Balls Outta Here.