Lidge Debuts With Threshers

The Clearwater Threshers opened their Florida State League season today, and their starter was none other then Phillies closer Brad Lidge.  Lidge's start was his final test in his rehabilitation from knee surgery.  While his knee has been feeling fine, Lidge started the season on the DL so he can gain some arm strength.

Lidge threw one inning where he allowed one run on two hits, but struck out two.  While he did give up a run I'm not concerned.  he was focusing on arm strength and his two strikeouts outweigh his one earned run.

Lidge will come off the disabled list on Saturday and take over the closers role.  The timing could not be better since Tom Gordon has pitched on a highwire in his two outings this season.