Phillies Acquire Lidge

The Phillies have acquired Brad Lidge and Eric Bruntlett from the Astros in exchange for Michael Bourn, Geoff Geary, and Mike Costanzo. This really comes as no surprise for the pitching hungry Phillies. I think this move helps both teams. Michael Bourn is a young and capable outfielder who know gives the Astros an outfielder who can play all three positions. They also get Geoff Geary, whose experience in the National League will benefit the Astros. For the Phillies, Brad Lidge gives them an option at closer, or a solid setup role while Bruntlett probably won't benefit much from the bench. This season, Lidge was 5-3 with 19 SV and a 3.36 ERA while Bruntlett batted .246 with 0 HR and 14 RBI. Bourn, 24, batted .277 with 1 HR, 6 RBI, and 18 SB. This is the second big trade since the off season started, and time will tell whether this trade benefits the Astros or the Phillies. Ed Wade is keeping to his word that he would be very aggressive this off season, and trading Lidge, who was regarded as one of the best closers in the game just a couple years ago, shows that. The team really was not happy with his performance in the last year, so his departure appeared likely. Lidge made 5.35 this season with the Astros and I believe he is up for arbitration again, so he could make 6-6.40 million dollars for 2008.

Let me know who you think wins in this trade...