Lidge nearing first minor league appearence

RHP Brad Lidge (David Maialetti /Philly Inquirer)

Remember this guy? Brad Lidge says he is nearing his first minor league stint, good news for the righty and certainly good news for the depth of the Phillies bull pen.

Lidge feels his partially torn rotator cuff is well enough for him to begin a rehab assignment.

“Honestly,” Lidge said, “my shoulder right now feels like nothing ever happened.”

Though Lidge is optimistic, it will all depend on how much faith GM Ruben Amaro, manager Charlie Manuel and pitching coach Rich Dubee will have in Lidge for they will be the guys signing off on his innings and assignments.

But if Lidge doesn’t suffer any setbacks, he is hopeful to be back by the end of July. By then, the Phils will be hopeful their two injured relievers Ryan Madson and Jose Contreras along with starter Joe Blanton are back. With those guys possibly back, it will be interesting to see who Lidge replaces.

The Phils have gotten a lot of great innings from lefty Antonio Bastardo and righty Michael Stutes, their two youngest arms in the pen with the brightest futures.

For now, Lidge has to get that assignment. Time will tell on the rest.

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