Lidge not guaranteed closer job upon return

Phils skipper Charlie Manuel cautioned that when Lidge does return, it doesn’t necessarily mean the end of Jose Contreras as closer. The Cuban has gone 3 for 3 in save opportunities and currently has an 0.63 ERA in 16 relief appearances.

Manuel said that the situation will largely depend on how Lidge performs moving forward, but gives credit to Contreras to making a seamless transition to the bullpen. “We’re trying to build him up where he can go at least 3 or 4 days in a row,” said Manuel. “That’s a process, but stuff-wise, what he’s done so far, he’s been very good, and he’s got the talent to pitch at the end of the game and to be a closer.”

Brad Lidge Hopes To Return Phillies Following Saturday Rehab Appearance

Philadelphia Phillies reliever Brad Lidge hopes to return to the major league team Monday if his rehab appearance for Class A Clearwater goes by without incident.

Lidge called a Monday return "very possible" -- if all goes well on Saturday, of course.

"I'm hoping just one [rehab appearance]," said Lidge, who's given up a run in 3 1/3 innings this year. "Obviously, if I feel good in the outing and stuff is coming out of my hand the way it needs to be to get guys out in the big leagues, we'll be good."

Lidge has one save and a 2.70 ERA in four appearances for the Phillies this season after beginning the season in the disabled list.

His replacement, 38-year-old Jose Contreras, has allowed just one run in 14.1 inning pitched this season while allowing just eight hits.