I thought Brad Lidge was in trouble when the Pirates nearly rallied to beat him last week, but a look at the numbers shows he's had trouble all season long.
He does have seven saves, but only one of those a perfect 1-2-3 inning. Remember when he'd just mow down whatever was in front of him in short order? That hasn't been happening.
Maybe he just needs to warm up. His velocity is still there. He just doesn't look as confident as he used to. His earned run average is 6.94, and he's walked 10 batters in 11 2/3 innings. Last year he issued just 23 free passes total in 70 2/3 innings.
If he goes on a 20-appearance scoreless stretch I don't think anyone would be surprised. Houston is showing faith in him, and rightfully so. I don't know of anyone there who could take over for him anyhow. But if nothing else, it makes you wonder.
Has he been overworked?
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