Philadelphia Gambling On Madson To Fill Closer Role

The Philadelphia Phillies have been the National League champions for the past two years. If they are going to make it three straight seasons, they will need to find more consistency from their closer role.

Brad Lidge was virtually unhittable two years ago when the Phillies won the World Series. Last year, however, Lidge reverted back to the form that caused his departure from Houston. The Phillies blew many games where they had the lead late, and eventually in the post season, that trend caught up with the team.

Now, entering a new year, Philadelphia has decided to give Ryan Madson the first crack at picking up saves. Madson will start the season as the Phillies closer, while Lidge will begin the year on the disabled list. With an increase in competition, Philly must get off to a strong start if they are going to hold off the Mets, Braves, and Marlins.

Madson filled in for Lidge briefly at the end of last year. he has never been a full time closer, but has shown flashes of being dominant. If Madson gets off to a strong start, it will be difficult for the team to replace him when Lidge is back healthy.

Of the teams that are competing for the NL East crown, all have issues with the back end of their bullpens. Atlanta lost both Mike Gonzalez and Rafael Soriano, and replaced them with Billy Wagner. The Marlins have installed Billy Wagner as their closer.

The Mets have the best closer in the division in Francisco Rodriguez, but they will have trouble getting to him with a lead. With J.J. Putz gone, Pedro Feliciano will try to nail down the eighth inning before Rodriguez is summoned in the ninth.

March 29, 2010
Posted By Vincent Tapoglia III
Staff Editor, CasinoGamblingWeb.com
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