Lidge Reportedly Set to Retire

Lidge warms up prior to a 2011 rehab outing

On Sunday evening, news broke that former Phillies closer Brad Lidge is set to announce his retirement from being an active player.

The 35-year-old Lidge had a difficult stretch since he helped the Phillies lock down their second ever World Series title in 2008. In recent years, the right-hander dealt with injury issues and missed considerable time with the Phillies and Nationals.

Last season, Lidge was released by Washington after posting a 0-1 record and a 9.64 ERA in 11 appearances.

Lidge, who was acquired by the Phils in a trade with Houston in 2007, became a legendary figure in team history as he converted all 48 of his save opportunities, including the postseason the following year.

In his 11-season big league career, Lidge posted a 26-32 record with 225 saves as well as a 3.54 ERA and was named an All-Star twice.

The news of Lidge's retirement is the first bit of major news to come out of the Major League Baseball winter meetings that officially kick off on Monday in Nashville, TN.
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