Brad Lidge was a really solid professional closing pitcher for eleven seasons. He accomplished a lot with both the Houston Astros and Philadelphia Phillies.
Lidge really established himself well in his first six years with the Astros. He played for them from 2002-2007 and in that time he placed 5th in NL Rookie of the Year voting, 8th in NL Cy Young voting, made an All-Star team, and even received a few votes for NL MVP, placing 30th in 2005. 2005 is also the year Lidge helped lead the Astros to the World Series before losing to the Chicago White Sox.
In the off-season prior to 2008, just as the back of this card states, Lidge ended up on the Phillies, and I'm sure Lidge is incredibly thankful fate led him to Philly. I know I'm glad he did! 2008 would easily be the best year of Lidge's professional baseball career.
It's so funny and trippy reading the back of this card. In this very short period of time, Lidge was just another solid free agent pickup.
Lidge became a legend so quickly in Philly, that I didn't actually realize 2008 was his first year with the team. He made himself at home very quickly.
2008 Brad Lidge was basically a superstar. The man just had an aura about him that season. His whole legacy leveled up.
Lidge's Legendary 2008 Season
- 41 Saves in 41 Chances - 100 Percent Rate!
- 1.95 ERA
- World Series Champion
- All-Star
- NL Rolaids Relief Man Award Winner
- Delivery Man of the Year
- NL Comeback Player of the Year
- 4th in NL Cy Young Votes
- 8th in NL MVP Voting
2008 Brad Lidge was just built different. The dude was a rockstar! The man had serious power and serious stuff.
Lidge's literal perfection continued in the Phillies' magical 2008 playoffs. Lidge was 7 of 7 on save opportunities, including the Phillies World Series Championship clinching game.
It's also the very game that this iconic Phillies moment was captured on camera. ALL Phillies fans know this picture well. Most baseball fans probably do too.
This must be what pure bliss looks like! The man looks inanely happy.
Maybe I'm crazy or biased, or both, but looking in Lidge's eyes on this card, the man looks intense and focused. Almost like he's on meth or something LOL.
Unfortunately, 2008 would end up being the peak of Lidge's baseball career, but man, what a peak it was!
Thanks for being a legend Brad! The Phillies would NOT have been Champions without you!
