Brad Lidge Activated from DL

Prior to Saturday afternoon's tilt against the Reds, the Phillies announced they have activated closer Brad Lidge from the disabled list. To make room for Lidge, the Phillies designated Tim Lahey, who they recently claimed from the Cubs, for assignment. Lahey never appeared in any games in his short career with the Phillies, although he could remain with the team and be sent down to the minors if no one claims him.

Lidge's return solidifies a bullpen that suddenly looks a whole lot stronger. J.C. Romero, Chad Durbin and Clay Condrey all have ERA's still at 0.00. Ryan Madsen bounced back from his shaky first performance to pitch two scoreless innings yesterday. Recent acquisition Rudy Seanez has been perfect in his first two innings of work, not even surrendering a hit. The only bullpen pitcher who has yet to have a strong outing is Tom Gordon, who got shelled on Opening Day and struggled in his second outing, despite not giving up any runs. Adding Lidge to the mix should help define everyone's roles, and give Charlie Manuel plenty of options out of the pen. Ideally, the team would be smart to add another lefty and drop Clay Condrey, but they are looking good either way.

Last Night: The Phillies overcame a poor pitching performance by Kyle Kendrick to beat the Reds 8-4. Chase Utley homered twice and Pat Burrell added a homer of his own to lead the offense. The Phils bullpen pitched 4 scoreless innings to help hold down the win.

Today's Game: Adam Eaton makes his 2008 debut against the Reds this afternoon. Be honest, how many Phillies fans are rooting for Eaton to get shelled so they just get rid of him already?