Philadelphia Phillies: 8 Reasons Ryan Madson Will Close After Brad Lidge Returns

For at least the time being, Ryan Madson appears to be Charlie Manuel’s choice as the closer of the Philadelphia Phillies.

The ninth-year veteran has picked up two of the Phillies‘ three saves since interim closer Jose Contreras hit the disabled list on April 22 with an elbow strain.

The third save was picked up by Antonio Bastardo on what would have been Madson’s third consecutive day of work.

Madson’s ascension to the closer role has always seemed inevitable. The 6’6″ righty has never found a real niche in the Phillies staff since his true rookie year in 2004. 

He’s been used in every role, from setup to long man to starting pitcher (17 starts in 2006). But Madson hasn’t ever been given an extended shake in the ninth inning.

With Brad Lidge expected back from the disabled list soon from his partially torn rotator cuff, the time for Madson to capitalize is right now.

What follows is a list of eight reasons why Madson will fend off Lidge (and Jose Contreras) and remain the Phillies closer moving forward.

Data courtesy of www.fangraphs.com.

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