According to Comcast SportsNet’s John Finger, Lidge said he wasn’t concerned about the inflammation because the MRI came up negative:
“I’m concerned on a small level because it’s not feeling great and I want to get back there as soon as possible. But I think if we nip it in the bud right now, hopefully it will be something I won’t have to worry about for the rest of the year.”
He added he re-aggravated the knee in his last outing.
“It causes some discomfort when I pitch, especially when I throw 35 pitches in an inning. I’ve done that a couple times this year.”
You’re seeing with Lidge – and to an extent Cole Hamels and Co. – the problem with workhorsing your team into and through the postseason. The wear has built up. Add on Lidge’s slow return to normalcy during spring training, and you have a potential recipe for disaster. It’s looking evident Lidge will have to join the 15-day disabled list, merely for rest and rehabilitation. Considering JC Romero is still 30+ games from returning, and there’s no true organization in middle relief, the Phils need to address their bullpen, and quickly.
