Lidge wins NL Comeback Player of the Year

Awards for the Phillies organization have started to come in. Brad Lidge was named the National League's Comeback Player of the Year for 2008. Lidge, the Phillies closer this season, was a perfect 41-for-41 in save opportunities. According to the Elias Sports Bureau, no Phillies closer with more than 20 opportunities has ever been perfect since the save became an official statistic in 1969. Until now, that is. Besides the 41 saves, Lidge posted a 1.95 ERA and had 92 Ks in 69.1 IPs with a WHIP of 1.23. Lidge had an inconsistent 2007 season with the Houston Astros, converting only 19 of 27 save opportunities and being demoted from the closer role.


This may not be the last of the awards for members of the Philadelphia organization. Votes have been cast for all of the prestigious MLB awards, like MVP and Cy Young, but results won't be made public until the season is over. First baseman Ryan Howard is a NL MVP candidate and Lidge will garner some consideration for the NL Cy Young. Plus, Charlie Manuel could win NL Manager of the Year.