A change from Brad Lidge?

Question

After two bad outings two days in a row - one blown save and one loss - should the Houston Astros change closers from Brad Lidge? Fernando Nieve was moved to the bullpen after Clemens' return and has done very well as a reliever. He even picked up a win this way. We've had some great times with "Lights Out Lidge," but is it time to switch? If only for a little while until Lidge can work out the kinks?

The problem with Taylor Buchholz moving to the bullpen is that his arm doesn't bounce back as fast. This is one of the reasons he stayed in the rotation and Nieve went to the bullpen.

I completely agree that Lidge should sit out Cards games. I was so scared when he came in tonight. When he had two on base and two outs, I gained just a little bit more hope. Then he let that guy hit in two runners. He should at least pass the torch when the Cards come to town.

Answer 1

I think it is necessary to assume that maybe the break will help Lidge clear his head and get refocoused. However, if he comes back and pitches the way he did the last two games before the All-Star break, then I think he needs to be taken out of the CLOSER role, not the bullpen or traded.

Chad Qualls is definitely a considerable option to put in during 9th inning situations, however, much like everyone else in the bullpen has shown inconsistency. Miller with just three pitches and a previous shoulder problem and doesn't have the "stuff" Springer...decent, but substantially lacks the ability and composure, Wheeler is your typical setup man and was given the role of closer when Lidge was FIRST struggling at the beginning of the season and blew 1 of 2 appearances by walking in the winning run. Nieve and Borowski are typical long inning pitchers who have good pitches and stuff to come in early for your typical Wandy Rodriquez blowup, however, they are far from being a closer, especially Nieve who struggles with control. Chad Qualls has a really good Slyder an average fastball and change and an excellent splitter. With some polishing, Qualls could be a really effective pitcher. Nevertheless, Lidge is still an amazing pitcher but needs to serve some hard time to make him realize the importance of his role in the Astros goal of winning (We would be over 500 and 1-2 games out if he would of converted his oppourtunities) . Obviously, this would involve him ridding it out on the bench in the 9th and serving a setup role until the kinks are worked out.

Also, Rodriquez is someone you will see move either to the bullpen or to AAA. The fact that he is a left handed pitcher with some decent control is what has kept him in the rotation thus far. Bucholz is a young Oswalt who has tremendous potential, l'd look to see him stay in the lineup upon the return of Backe.

Answer 2

The answer is no, Brad Lidge has some of the best stuff in the game, and for better or worse he is houston's closer. Closers general do not do very well when they are demoted, due to the fact that confidence is so important when dealing with ninth inning situations. He is an amazing talent and people should not view him with a what have you done for me lately mentality.

Answer 3

I dont think we should change closers. Lidge hasnt done so well these past two games, but before those two games he converted 10 straight save attempts. But I do think the 'stros need some more bullpen help. maybe when Backe comes back Taylor B. can move out to the bullpen.

Answer 4

Yes, they should put in a new closer. I'm a Cards fan and I've kind of noticed a little trend with Lidge and games involving the Cardinals. When you can't get Aaron Miles out (no offense to him), it's time to give the closing role to another player.

Answer 5

hey astros chick brad lidge and cardinals dont mix did u see that game tonight again put lidge on the bench and play nieve as closer it is time garner needs to wake up